DREAM THEATER drummer Mike Portnoy has weighed in on RUSH's first concert with German drummer Anika Nilles, who toured with Jeff Beck last year.

The June 7 show at Kia Forum in Los Angeles was the kick-off gig of the band's revamped lineup featuring classic members Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson alongside Nilles.

Earlier today, Portnoy expressed his thoughts on the concert via social media, praising Nilles for a 'tasteful' performance that honored Neil Peart's legacy.

Portnoy acknowledged that some fans had hoped he would be asked to join RUSH instead of Nilles.

However, he stated that filling Peart's shoes would have been impossible and expressed relief that they didn't ask him to do so.

In January 2026, Portnoy shared his excitement about the prospect of Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson touring with Anika.

RUSH will perform multiple shows across Canada, the United States, and Mexico, playing two sets each night featuring a distinct selection of songs from their extensive catalog.

The band's initial leg of dates sold out immediately before they doubled the tour length due to increased demand.

The updated itinerary now totals 58 shows across 24 cities with over half a million tickets sold for this year.

RUSH has announced additional South American and European tour dates in early 2027, marking their first time playing in Europe since 2013.

They will perform special 'evening with' shows featuring two sets each night with a distinct selection of songs from their extensive catalog.