Blue Suede Shoes:
Memories of the King
Memories of the King
Unforgettable Tribute to Elvis Presley at the King’s Wharf Theatre
Thursday, August 9th, 2012
PENETANGUISHENE – Audiences can’t help singing along
to the endless number of chart-topping hits featured in this season’s
production of Blue Suede Shoes: Memories of the King, onstage now
through September 1st at King’s Wharf Theatre.
More than 30 years ago the legendary Elvis Presley, who
transformed an entire generation with his personal style and zest for music of
every genre, met a tragic fate. However, the story of his meteoric rise
to stardom continues in this remarkable theatrical production that commemorates
Elvis’ life from humble beginnings to the unforgettable end, as seen through
the eyes of his lifelong business manager, Colonel Tom Parker.
“This play is a tribute to a true artistic pioneer,”
says Alex Mustakas, Artistic Director of Drayton Entertainment. ”It
contains one hit after another, and whether or not you’re a fan, this show will
touch your heart, make you laugh, and leave you singing your way out of the
theatre.”
Renowned Elvis impersonator Roy LeBlanc takes
to the stage as the American icon who became one of the most popular singers of
the 20th century. LeBlanc has many titles under his belt, including The
World’s Finest Elvis Impersonator from the annual Elvis Extravaganza in Las
Vegas, and Grand Champion of the world’s largest annual Elvis contest in
Collingwood, Ontario.
LeBlanc genuinely personifies The King, which inspired
co-creators Chris McHarge and Colin Stewart to bring this unique
theatrical endeavour to life. Entertaining the crowds with his remarkable
swagger and versatile voice, LeBlanc embodies the heart and soul of the
legendary performer, who millions of fans continue to cherish to this day. From
his renditions of “Love Me Tender”, “Heartbreak Hotel” and “Jailhouse Rock” to
when he’s singing “Viva Las Vegas”, “In the Ghetto” and “Suspicious Minds”, the
audience simply can’t get enough of LeBlanc’s raw emotion.
“Blue Suede Shoes: Memories of the King
is an awe-inspiring production,” says Mustakas. “LeBlanc’s tremendous talent
gives the audience exactly what they are hoping for – a chance to relive the
memories of one of the greatest musical icons of all time, performed by an
artist who makes you believe that The King is still alive.”
This unique show takes the audience on a walk down
memory lane, along the ups and downs of Elvis’ extraordinary life as witnessed
by his dedicated business manager. As Colonel Tom Parker, Chris McHarge
treats the star of the show with compassion and respect, and provides a few
laughs along the way.
As one of the creators of Blue Suede Shoes:
Memories of the King, along with Colin Stewart, McHarge is at
the top of his game. Not only does he tackle the part of the Colonel but he
also directs the production. A veteran of Canadian
theatre, McHarge has been at the helm of over one hundred productions during
his career, including twelve world premieres with Canada’s preeminent
playwright, Norm Foster.
Backing up LeBlanc is an excellent band headed up by Ian
Koiter on Bass, Dean Harrison on Piano, John Kenny on Guitar,
and Neil Lafortune on Drums.
Over the course of the performance, the audience has a
glimpse at the most transformative moments in Presley’s life. From the early
days at Sun Records and his time with RCA, through his induction to the U.S.
Army in 1958, followed by a plethora of leading roles in nearly 30 films
produced during the 1960s, Blue Suede Shoes: Memories of the King
is a prolific journey through The King’s life and career.
As true Elvis fans would expect, one of the most
thrilling moments in this play occurs when the stage is set for his Comeback
Special - Presley's first live performance since 1961. Widely regarded as
one of his greatest performances, the show aired on NBC, December 3rd,
1968 and led to an extended Las Vegas concert residency and a string of
profitable tours.
The overall mood of the production is greatly enhanced
by the work of Lighting Designer Jeff Johnston Collins. Johnston Collins
and McHarge are collaborators on the Set Design.
Elvis Presley’s death on August 16th, 1977
ended a remarkable career and firmly established him as a Rock & Roll
legend. But in Penetanguishene, The King lives again. So take a trip to the
King’s Wharf Theatre and see this unforgettable celebration. You’ll be glad you
did.
Blue Suede Shoe: Memories of the King is
proudly sponsored by The Free Press. Media Sponsors are CHAY Today @ 93.1 FM,
and The Collingwood Connection. The Design Sponsor is H.S. St. Amant & Sons
Inc.
Blue Suede Shoes: Memories of the King plays
eight shows a week through September 1st.
Tickets are being snapped up quickly, and theatregoers
are encouraged to purchase their tickets as soon as possible to avoid
disappointment. Tickets are available for purchase at the King’s Wharf Theatre
Box Office or by calling (705) 549-5555 or toll free at 1-855-372-9866.
To order tickets online, visit www.kingswharftheatre.com
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For more information please contact: Valerie O’Brien, Marketing Manager
(519) 638-5511 ext. 235 or email valerie@draytonentertainment.com
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