They are the objects of adoration, and occasionally some
good natured ribbing. They come in all shapes, ages,
sizes and from cultures around the world.
They are Elvi...men, women and children, who look, sound
and dress like Elvis Presley, The King of Rock and Roll.
 |
GOOD ROCKIN'
TONIGHT: The Eighth
Annual
Michigan
ElvisFest is scheduled
July 13-14, in
Ypsilanti's Riverside
Park. |
Twelve Elvis tribute artists (don't call them impersonators,
there was only one King, baby!) will perform during the
Eighth Annual Michigan ElvisFest, July 13-14 in Ypsilanti.
Tickets for the performances are $12 for Friday and $18
for Saturday. Children 10 and under are free. Discount
tickets are available online at www.mielvisfest.com
ElvisFest, for the uninitiated, is a celebration of all
things Elvis Presley and is one of the few Elvis events
in the world sanctioned by Elvis Presley Enterprises.
"We pride ourselves on having some of the best tribute
artists," said Mary Decker, director of the event. Decker
has been involved in the last six ElvisFests.
There are nine adult Elvis tribute artists (ETA) and three
child artists scheduled to perform during the two-day event.
They include three Elvis tribute artists from Michigan,
a Canadian performer and a nine-year-old girl from Georgia.
"One of the surprising performances last year was from
Duke Mason," Decker said. "He has such an incredible voice,
so he is back by popular demand. The children performers
are really good, too."
For the non-Elvis music lovers, there are tribute artists
who will perform the music of Roy Orbison, Buddy Holly
and Ray Charles.
According to Decker, there are some new events this year
at ElvisFest. There will be a candlelight vigil Saturday
night at 10:30 p.m., to commemorate the 30th anniversary
of the year of Presley's death. There also will be a special
salute to Elvis' gospel recordings Saturday at 2 p.m.
 |
ELVIS DAYS: Leo
Days is one of the
Elvis
tribute artists
who will perform at
the Michigan
ElvisFest. |
Eastern Michigan University will be giving out 1,000 E-Cards
at the Ypsilanti Chamber booth. The cards are good for
discounts at area businesses.
Decker said that Friday is a better night for adults to
come to the event, while Saturday may be better for families
with the numerous events for children.
"You will get the Elvis experience on either day!" said
Decker.
So, while Elvis may have left the building, visitors to
Elvisfest will be able to see his spirit live on.
Thank you, thank you very much!
