Celebrating 50 years since Elvis Presley’s televised Special aired on NBC Television – now known as his ’68 Comeback Special – Bill Kenwright proudly presents This Is Elvis – Burbank and Vegas a new musical that follows the true story of Elvis’ life and career, charting his journey back to stardom and his return to success as a stage performer.
In the coveted role of Elvis is international award-winning tribute artist and actor Steve Michaels (formerly known as Stephen Michael Kabakos). His passion for Elvis was sparked at a very young age, and has continued to be the drive behind his extraordinary success.
His masterful performance and remarkable renditions of the King have garnered him worldwide attention. Steve has played alongside some of Elvis Presley’s iconic band mates including the legendary drummer DJ Fontana and bassist Jerry Scheff. In addition, he has shared the stage with the extraordinary Jordanaires and the soulful voices of the Sweet Inspirations. Steve’s exquisite styling and ability to capture an authentic portrayal of Elvis Presley has endeared him to audiences everywhere across Canada, United States, India, Thailand, United Kingdom, Hong Kong, Philippines and Australia.
The ’68 Comeback Special drew phenomenal TV ratings – almost half of the viewing audience – and firmly re-established Elvis as the major entertainment star of the decade, and twelve months later Elvis stars at the International Hotel in Vegas, performing live for the first time in seven years, and securing his place in history as the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll!
This Is Elvis recreates all the drama leading up to the comeback as well as staging the monumental concert. It then follows The King to his Vegas debut and features Elvis’s greatest hits including Trouble, Heartbreak Hotel, Blue Suede Shoes, Hound Dog, Love Me Tender, All Shook Up, Jailhouse Rock, One Night, It’s Now or Never, Are you Lonesome Tonight?, Can’t Help Falling in Love, In The Ghetto, Suspicious Minds, American Trilogy, Just Can’t Help Believing.
Elvis Presley is still regarded as one of the most significant cultural icons of the 20th century, and is the biggest selling artist of all time with over one billion records globally. Among his many awards and accolades Elvis was nominated for 14 Grammy’s and aged just 36 was awarded the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.
Still enjoyed by millions today, his legacy lives on and this new musical relives the incredible comeback and resurgence in his popularity and the monumental Vegas concert that confirmed Elvis’ legendary title as The King.
This is Elvis plays at Cardiff’s New Theatre next week from 9 – 14 April. For full details and to book tickets, please visit newtheatrecardiff.co.uk or call the Box Office on (029) 2087 8889.