Though it’s been under a year and a half since global music icon (and the world’s first American Idol) Kelly Clarkson’s last Las Vegas residency, the local music scene hasn’t been the same since she’s been gone (see what we did there?). But never fear, Miss Independent is back and better than ever with a captivating setlist that’ll ensure no audience member walks away unhappy. We were invited to witness opening night, and the show definitely does not disappoint.
Kelly Clarkson Returns to the Vegas Stage with Studio Sessions
Kelly Clarkson’s Kelly Clarkson: Studio Sessions – The Las Vegas Residency takes place at The Colosseum inside the world-famous Caesars Palace. Dates run in July (18, 19, 25, 26 ), August (1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16 ), and November (7, 8, 14, 15), so there’s plenty of time to plan to catch the stunning show before it’s already gone. Though the residency got off to a slightly rocky start with the original debut weekend’s cancellation due to Clarkson’s illness, the show was well worth the wait.
The “Studio Sessions” Experience: An Intimate Journey
After the show’s grand opening on July 11, 2025, Clarkson is delighting audiences with a dynamic performance that showcases her unparalleled vocal talent and incredible stage presence. The core of this residency is an intimate show that brings the studio to the stage. The show’s stripped-down recording studio stage set provides the perfect backdrop for Clarkson to enjoy some informal conversation and interaction with the audience, making the show feel more casual and personal. Unlike her previous, more theatrically-focused and technologically advanced runs, this new show offers a powerful and raw musical performance. Relying only on lighting effects and sound, the show is a true spectacle that concentrates on Clarkson’s powerhouse vocals to propel it along.
A New Chapter in a Storied Career
Backed by a full house band of performers she has worked with for years, this concert experience is a journey through Kelly Clarkson’s impressive career, from chart-topping anthems to her latest songs, and some of her personal favorite songs, proving why her Las Vegas residency is a must-see for any fan of live music. While the show highlights her timeless hits like “Stronger” and “Breakaway” alongside new, emotional tracks, Clarkson has truly made the setlist her own (with several cheeky nods to doing things her way in her addresses to the audience, who loved every minute of it). New additions to her usual line-up received just as much excitement and attention as tried-and-true classics like “Behind These Hazel Eyes” and “Because of You.” In fact, more obscure tracks like “Beautiful Disaster” with its piano accompaniment and fully stripped-down sound received roaring applause.
An Intimate Stage for a Superstar
The Colosseum at Caesars Palace is the perfect home for the new residency with state-of-the-art acoustics that lend a powerful foundation to the show’s fully live sound. Seating over 4,000 audience members, the venue itself might be mid-sized, but the layout of the house design provides a more intimate appearance with three levels of seating, allowing for three completely separate experiences. The theater has been The Colosseum has been deemed the “Home of the Greatest Entertainers in the World.” It has hosted iconic residencies by superstars like Celine Dion, Elton John, and Adele, and with Kelly Clarkson added to the roster, The Colosseum truly has been home to some of the best performers of our time.
After Party Ideas
Extend your evening at Caesars Palace with an on-stage karaoke (aptly dubbed Kellyoke) at Caspian’s Cocktails & Caviar. Enjoy themed cocktails like Since You’ve Been Gone, Stronger, and Kelly, along with a variety of caviar-centric dishes that range from indulgent to inventive. It’s the perfect way to end a night out at Caesars Palace!
