Sir Elton John has been targeted by anti-gay campaigners in Russia who have warned the superstar to tone down his colourful wardrobe and wear "more respectable" clothing for his concert there next month - or face protests.
Sir Elton is due to perform in the southern city of Krasnodar on July 14, but members of the country's Communists of Russia party have insisted that the openly-gay star should abandon his flamboyant stage costumes and opt for a more traditional Cossack wardrobe.
Local party leader Mikhail Abramyan recommended that Sir Elton don a knee-length kaftan, knee-high leather boots, and a fur hat for the gig, insisting that his usual outfits are "homosexual propaganda" that could breach local laws where promoting homosexuality is a criminal offence.
He tells Russian news agency Ria Novosti, "It would be more respectable. We have suggested it to the promoters and we hope he'll wear it."
Last year, Madonna was sued by Russian anti-gay groups for US$10.85 million for violating the local laws after they claimed her concert in St Petersburg, in which she spoke out in favour of gay rights, "promoted homosexuality".
