Some people know how to raise questions and others know (or at least should know) how to answer them. Elvis Costello has proved throughout time that he is the type of celebrity who is not afraid to open up in a straightforward manner. Thus, this might help him in switching places with the interviewer, as the punk-pop icon took the helm of a show that is meant to bring the real side of professionalism.

“Spectacle: Elvis Costello With …” is a 13-week series that debuts on Wednesday night at 9 on Sundance Channel and includes various interviews with guests like Rosanne Cash, The Police, Norah Jones, Julian Schnabel/Lou Reed and Smokey Robinson.

Tonight’s show concentrates on a chat between the host of the program and Elton John, who displays a clever, yet chancy pick for a premiere, which usually sets the stakes.

In spite of the fact that Elton John benefits from a very broad fan base and is constantly hard to pin down, his persona is well-known and so are his personal life and professional career.

The 61-year-old singer/songwriter fails to add new information to the already famous story of his advance from a gripped adolescent to a flashy, hedonistic international star.

Nevertheless, Elvis Costello manages to save his own show and offer the tale a fresh façade with the help of his gripping remarks and inquiries, which require no additional explanations.

The premiere also includes a performance by Elvis Costello, as he sings “Workin’ in a Coal Mine” and David Ackles’ “Down River” in a duet with his guest.