Empire of the Sun
Tour

The Evolution of Empire of the Sun — From Walking on a Dream to Ask That God

Empire of the Sun emerged in 2008 as the creative partnership of Luke Steele, frontman of Australian indie band The Sleepy Jackson, and Nick Littlemore, one half of electronic outfit Pnau. Their debut album Walking on a Dream fused glam-rock theatricality with shimmering synth-pop, producing the title track that became a worldwide hit and a perennial festival closer. The album earned multiple ARIA Awards and established the duo as one of the most visually and sonically ambitious acts in modern pop, known equally for their otherworldly costumes and headpieces as for their music.

The follow-up, Ice on the Dune (2013), expanded the duo’s palette with bigger production and deeper dance-floor influences, while Two Vines (2016) pushed into more introspective territory without abandoning the cinematic scale that defined their sound. Each album cycle brought increasingly elaborate live shows, with Steele’s Emperor character becoming a fully realized stage persona complete with custom-designed outfits, props, and choreographed visual sequences that blurred the line between concert and performance art.

The 2024 release of Ask That God marked a creative rebirth. The album debuted at number four on Billboard’s Top Dance Albums chart and earned praise for its lush production and introspective lyrics. Tracks like “Changes” and the title song blended euphoric synth melodies with themes of transformation and spiritual searching, resonating with longtime fans and attracting a new generation of listeners drawn to the album’s cinematic electronic sound. The Ask That God touring cycle that followed became one of the most talked-about live productions of 2025, setting the stage for the Afterlife continuation in 2026.

The Ask That God: Afterlife tour represents what Steele has called “a tour of unknowns and possibilities.” With Polo & Pan and Midnight Generation as support, the triple bill stacks three distinct approaches to electronic music on a single stage each night. Polo & Pan bring a sun-drenched French house sound built on samples and live instrumentation, while Midnight Generation adds a darker, bass-forward edge that contrasts with the headliner’s orchestral grandeur. The result is an evening that evolves in texture and energy from first note to last.

Highlights on the venue roster include the tour opener at Red Rocks Amphitheatre on August 11, Forest Hills Stadium in Queens on August 29, Merriweather Post Pavilion in Columbia on September 4, the Mann Center in Philadelphia on September 5, Truliant Amphitheater in Charlotte on September 9, iThink Financial Amphitheatre near Miami on September 16, the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles on October 8, and the Las Vegas finale at PH Live on October 9. Each stop provides the kind of open-air or architecturally significant setting that allows Empire of the Sun’s visual production to shine at full scale. The outdoor setting at each venue adds a summer-festival energy that perfectly suits the upbeat, dance-driven nature of the Afterlife setlist.

How to Buy Empire of the Sun Tour Tickets

Where can I buy Empire of the Sun tickets?

Tickets may be available through Ticketmaster, venue box offices, and the official Empire of the Sun website. For sold-out dates or premium seating, verified resale tickets are listed on BigStub, a trusted marketplace with no hidden fees and a buyer guarantee backed by over 20 years of experience.

When does the Ask That God: Afterlife tour start?

The tour begins with a special appearance at Cardiff Castle in Wales on June 23, 2026. The main North American leg launches at Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Morrison, Colorado, on August 11 and runs through October 9, closing at PH Live at Planet Hollywood in Las Vegas.

Who are the opening acts on the Empire of the Sun tour?

French electronic duo Polo & Pan and rising act Midnight Generation serve as support on the North American dates. The triple bill delivers a full evening of electronic and dance music before Empire of the Sun takes the stage for their headlining set.

What should I know about the amphitheater venues on this tour?

Most stops take place at major outdoor amphitheaters with both reserved pavilion seating and general-admission lawn sections. Venues like Red Rocks, the Hollywood Bowl, Forest Hills Stadium, and Merriweather Post Pavilion are renowned for their acoustics and atmosphere. Arrive early to secure your spot, especially for lawn sections, and check each venue’s website for parking, entry, and prohibited-item policies.

Are resale tickets for Empire of the Sun legitimate?

Yes, when purchased through a verified platform. BigStub verifies every seller and ticket before delivery, ensuring buyers receive authentic, valid tickets. The platform carries the highest Trustpilot rating in the ticket resale industry and provides dedicated customer support on every transaction.

Frequently Asked Questions — Empire of the Sun Afterlife Tour

What is the Ask That God: Afterlife tour?

The Ask That God: Afterlife tour is Empire of the Sun’s 2026 North American concert tour, described as the final installment of the Ask That God era. It follows the duo’s 2025 Ask That God trek and supports their critically acclaimed 2024 album of the same name.

Who are the members of Empire of the Sun?

Empire of the Sun is the creative partnership of Luke Steele and Nick Littlemore. Steele serves as the group’s vocalist and visual frontman, while Littlemore handles much of the production and instrumental work. The duo is backed by a full band for live performances.

How many dates are on the 2026 Empire of the Sun tour?

The tour includes 31 dates, beginning with a one-off appearance at Cardiff Castle in Wales on June 23 before launching the North American amphitheater leg on August 11 at Red Rocks in Colorado. The final show is October 9 in Las Vegas.

Who is opening for Empire of the Sun on tour?

French electronic duo Polo and Pan and Midnight Generation serve as support acts on the North American dates, creating a full evening of electronic and dance music at every stop.

What songs will Empire of the Sun play on the Afterlife tour?

While the exact setlist has not been announced, fans can expect a mix of material from the Ask That God album alongside career-spanning favorites like Walking on a Dream, Alive, We Are the People, High and Low, and other singles from their four studio albums.

What is the Ask That God album?

Ask That God is Empire of the Sun’s fourth studio album, released in 2024. It debuted at number four on Billboard’s Top Dance Albums chart and was praised for its lush, cinematic production and introspective themes of transformation and spiritual exploration.

Is the Ask That God: Afterlife tour the last Empire of the Sun tour?

The tour has been described as the final installment of the Ask That God era, but Empire of the Sun has not announced it as a permanent farewell. It represents the culmination of the album cycle that began with the 2025 Ask That God tour.

What time do gates open at amphitheater shows?

Most amphitheaters open gates 60 to 90 minutes before the first act takes the stage. Check your specific venue’s website or ticket confirmation for exact gate times, as they vary by location.

What should I wear to an Empire of the Sun concert?

Empire of the Sun concerts are known for their theatrical, otherworldly atmosphere, and many fans dress in costumes, glitter, and colorful outfits to match the vibe. There is no dress code, but the visual nature of the show encourages creative self-expression.

Are Empire of the Sun shows family friendly?

The shows are open to all ages at most venues. The music is upbeat and the visuals are imaginative rather than explicit. Check individual venue policies for any age restrictions or guidelines for younger attendees.

Is there parking at the tour venues?

Yes. Every amphitheater on the tour offers on-site or nearby parking, often with a separate fee that can be prepaid online. Rideshare drop-off zones are also available at most locations for fans who prefer not to drive.

Can I buy VIP or premium tickets for Empire of the Sun?

VIP and enhanced ticket packages may be available through Ticketmaster or the official Empire of the Sun website. Check the primary ticketing platform for the specific venue and date to see current premium options.

Will Empire of the Sun play Red Rocks in 2026?

Yes. Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Morrison, Colorado, serves as the opening night of the North American leg on August 11, 2026. Red Rocks is one of the most iconic outdoor concert venues in the world and a fitting launchpad for the Afterlife tour’s visual production.

Can I transfer my Empire of the Sun tickets to someone else?

Most tickets purchased through Ticketmaster and verified resale platforms support mobile transfer. You can typically forward tickets to another person’s phone or email, making them easy to gift or share.

What is BigStub and is it a safe place to buy tickets?

BigStub is a verified ticket resale marketplace with over 20 years of experience and the highest Trustpilot rating in the industry. Every seller and ticket is verified before delivery, and all purchases are backed by a buyer guarantee with dedicated customer support.