Page 158 - Palace Theatre News

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The Redditch Standard Archives 19 May 2015

All Shook up: Elvis at the Palace this Friday - 2015

THE Palace will be All Shook Up on Friday when The King comes to town.
In a celebration of Elvis’ 80th birthday, Mario Kombou will bring the ‘The Elvis Years’ to
Redditch on Friday (May 22) as part of an extended tour of the West End production,
Jailhouse Rock.
The 80 date celebration marks eight decades of the ‘King’ of rock and roll and Ivor Novello
award-winning music director, David Mackay, will lead the concert production in its story of
Presley’s life.
Mario, who has been performing as Elvis for over 20 years, said: “I’m looking forward to
coming to Redditch.
“The production is a landmark for us and after nine years of performing we are still striving
to be able to reach another – maybe even a 90th birthday!”
The cast of ‘The Elvis Years’ aim to see the showcase back in London’s West End one day.
“That is what we are striving for as our ultimate goal,” Mario added.
Featuring authentic costumes and rare film footage, the production will include 12 costume
changes and 50 songs throughout its running time of around two hours.
Mario added: “It is an educational journey for the audience.
“We start at the very beginning in 1953, when Elvis recorded ‘My Happiness’ as a birthday
gift for his Mum, and go on yo recreate iconic moments along the way.”
As the only Elvis tribute artist in the world to have been offically endorsed by Donna Presley,
Elvis’ cousin, Mario said he ‘fell into’ his act after being a fan himself.
He added: “I grew up watching his movies and it has been a big influence on my life.
“My favourite is King Creole and, in my opinion, it is Elvis’ best acting role.”
Tickets, priced at £19.25, are available from the box office on 01527 65203 and the show it
suitable for all ages.

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