Paul Stanley is promising KISS fans something truly revolutionary. The iconic frontman has revealed exciting details about an upcoming KISS avatar show, describing it as an “immersive experience” that will surpass anything currently out there. In a recent interview with Billboard on the Behind The Setlist podcast, Stanley spoke about the project following the acquisition of KISS’ catalog, brand, and intellectual property by Pophouse Entertainment, the masterminds behind ABBA’s acclaimed ‘Voyage’ show.
Stanley shared his enthusiasm for the new venture, saying, “People are thrilled with ‘Voyage.’ I took my wife last month, and I had seen it last year. So Pophouse understood what we wanted to do and that what we wanna create is something that’s state of the art today.”
With advanced technology and collaboration with George Lucas’ renowned Industrial Light & Magic, KISS fans are in for a spectacular, next-level show. Stanley made it clear that they aren’t just aiming for a typical "hologram" concert, as he finds the concept outdated. Instead, this new show will be immersive and innovative, ensuring it’s a must-see event for KISS devotees and newcomers alike.
“That term seems to get thrown around a lot, but the idea of a simulated concert is not what we wanna do. Frankly, I would find that that boring,” he says. “What we’re creating is an immersive experience that KISS fans will love and people who have never been exposed to KISS or might not like certain aspects of the band will have to see.”
“It’s a must-see go-to experience. So it’s beyond anything that anyone else has contemplated. The whole idea, again, of doing a simulated concert is — that’s the dark ages to us.”
While the premiere date for the KISS avatar show is still under wraps, rumors suggest it may debut in Las Vegas in 2027. Stanley didn’t confirm the timeline but hinted that the technology requires a custom-built venue. “So this isn’t something where you’re in Kansas City today, and tomorrow you fly with your projector to do it. It demands an arena, so to speak that’s really solely used for a show like this.”
KISS recently introduced fans to the “next era” of the band during their farewell performance last December, unveiling early versions of the avatars. Stanley said this was just a glimpse of what’s to come. “What we showed was just the beginning. The real deal is still in development and will blow people’s minds.”
KISS co-founder Gene Simmons also weighed in, calling the decision to transition to a virtual band a “natural progression.” Reflecting on the band's 50-year legacy, Simmons added, “We’re walking off into the sunset with pride, but KISS will continue — just in a different form.”
