Alice Cooper reunites with original bandmates at 2025 Christmas Pudding charity concert

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Fans at Alice Cooper’s annual Christmas Pudding show in Phoenix got an unexpected blast from the past when the singer invited his original bandmates on stage. The reunion unfolded during the 2025 edition of the holiday fundraiser at the Celebrity Theatre, turning the evening into part rock-history moment, part celebratory benefit.

On-stage reunion: original Alice Cooper band returns for holiday gig

Midway through the concert, Alice Cooper reunited with guitarist Michael Bruce, bassist Dennis Dunaway, and drummer Neal Smith. The quartet played several numbers, blending classic hits with tracks from their recent reunion album.

Gyasi Heus — the Nashville guitarist who contributed to their comeback record — filled the role once held by the late Glen Buxton. The lineup mirrored the studio revival that produced The Revenge of Alice Cooper.

  • Venue: Celebrity Theatre, Phoenix, Arizona
  • Occasion: 2025 Christmas Pudding charity concert
  • Set mix: classic hits and songs from the new reunion album

Reunion LP: The Revenge of Alice Cooper and what it means

The new record marks a rare full-length return with Cooper and his original bandmates. The Revenge of Alice Cooper is the first album they recorded together since the early 1970s.

The collection has drawn attention for sounding refreshingly rooted in the band’s classic era. Cooper joked that the sessions unintentionally landed with a vintage feel, similar to records from the mid-1970s.

Where the group stands on more music

Conversations about future projects appear to be underway. Cooper told interviewers he’s open to recording again, after speaking with producer Bob Ezrin. The idea is not finalized, but momentum exists.

Back to a 1973 milestone: why this reunion matters

The last time Cooper’s full original band made a studio album together was in 1973 with Muscle of Love. Since then, members have collaborated sporadically on individual projects.

Recording together after five decades highlights both continuity and the timeless chemistry the musicians share. Fans and critics noted how naturally the group slipped into its classic sonic identity.

Christmas Pudding: a holiday concert with a mission

The Christmas Pudding event doubles as a charity fundraiser. Alice Cooper’s nonprofit, Solid Rock Teen Centers, funds music, dance, and arts programs for teens in the Phoenix area.

  • Age group served: 12–20
  • Offerings: free music lessons, dance, visual arts, and performance opportunities
  • Locations: three centers across the Valley

The annual show mixes comedians and guest musicians to raise funds and spotlight the nonprofit’s work.

Audience response and the night’s standout moments

Attendees reacted enthusiastically to the surprise reunion. Social feeds filled with clips of the band playing together and fans celebrating the unexpected set.

Commentators highlighted the emotional weight of the evening, given Glen Buxton’s absence. Gyasi Heus’s role drew praise for keeping the guitar parts faithful to the original spirit.

How the new album ties into the live performance

Songs from The Revenge of Alice Cooper featured in the set, showcasing how the studio work translated to a live stage.

  • New material played alongside legacy tracks
  • Arrangements aimed to honor the original band’s sound
  • Producer involvement helped bridge past and present

Critics and fans have noted the album’s throwback tone, a quality that also came alive during the Phoenix show.

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