‘Elvis: A Musical Revolution’ // HOTA
‘Elvis: A Musical Revolution’ was sensational.
‘Elvis: A Musical Revolution’, written by Sean Cercone and David Abbinanti, transports you from your seat at HOTA back to the Elvis era. Directed by Alistair Smith and produced by David Venn, the story of Elvis’ music career came to life on stage at the Gold Coast’s Home of the Arts.
‘Elvis: A Musical Revolution’ took the audience on a journey across the 1940s-1960’s, effectively flipping between Elvis’s childhood and adulthood and portraying where his love for music began, and where his career ended up as life went on. Unlike the 2022 film of a similar name, ‘Elvis: A Musical Revolution’ focuses more prominently on the story of Elvis Presley’s relationship with music, rather than on his entire life. The musical was all the more entertaining for it, and less heavy for those looking for a good show to see on a Saturday night!
The cast of this show was incredible, creating so much emotion as they portrayed Elvis’ story. So captivating in their performances, they command that stage and put on such a spectacular performance altogether. The amazing cast features Rob Mallett (Elvis Presley), Noni McCallum (Gladys Presley), Ian Stenlake (Colonel Parker), Annie Chiswell (Priscilla Presley), Kirby Burgess (Ann-Margret and Marion), Matt Heyward (Vernon Presley), Sienna Embrey (Dixie), Ben Hall (Sam Phillips), Aidan O Cleirigh (Scotty Moore), Hanlon Innocent (Bill Black) and Connor Morel (DJ Fontana), as well as a fantastic ensemble of incredibly talented artists.
Special shout-out to Sebastian Sero, who portrayed Young Elvis. Not many children can dominate a stage like Sebastian can. Even among so many adults, he captured your attention and his performance as Young Elvis was undeniably brilliant.
Rob Mallet as Elvis was impeccable casting. He owned this role as if he was born to play Elvis. From his voice to his emotion to his ability to fabulously mimic iconic Presley dance moves, you do not want to miss this star shine as Elvis Presley!
The impeccable choreography by Michael Ralph combined both modern and 1960s dance moves, creating entertainment so captivating that you can’t look away. Coupled with the extraordinary music and orchestration by Daniel Puckey and David Abbinanti respectively, paid perfect homage to the 40s-60s and Christian music, making the show all the more captivating and fun.
Costuming by Isaac Lummis was amazing, so colourful and reflective of the era. What I wouldn’t give to wear some of those dresses now! As for the hair and makeup by Trent Whitmore, so well done, so beautiful. You wouldn’t even know some of the actors were wearing wigs, they were so well placed!
Sound design by Greg Ginger, set design by Dan Potra and lighting design by Declan O’Neill truly transported you back in time to the 1950s. Paired with Alistair Smith incredible direction and the amazing video design by David McKinnon, you wouldn’t know you were in a theatre anymore! They immerse you into the Elvis era so incredibly that it doesn’t even feel like 2024, and when the lights come up at the end, you have to take a moment to remember what time you are in!
This show reflects just how influential Elvis was on the world of music, and with the help of Elvis consultant Mark Andrew’s clearly extensive knowledge on the music icon, ‘Elvis: A Musical Revolution’, a story of a legendary man, was able to truly become a musical revolution.
‘Elvis: A Musical Revolution’ is playing at Gold Coast’s Home of the Arts until July 7th, 2024. For more information, visit their website.
Photo by @bybritcreative
