(Doug Weich as Elvis)
(Review by Keith
Millar)
NEWSFLASH! Reports
were received last night that the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley had been
sighted in the Durban suburb of Umbilo.
On closer
investigation it was discovered that it was, in fact, the highly talented Elvis
impersonator Doug Weich performing at the popular Rhumbelow Theatre in a
fabulous, Las Vegas styled, tribute to the King.
Ballito-based Weich
is regarded as one of the top Elvis Tribute Artists in the country. He has
travelled widely, entertaining audiences with his interpretation of the music
of one of the greatest artists of all time. Now he is back at the Rhumbelow
Theatre, by popular demand, to present his new show, Elvis – The King: Now And Forever.
It is a wonderful
rock and roll party of a show. It had the audience on their feet, dancing and
shouting for more from beginning to end.
Weich is backed in
this show by his very accomplished six piece MSG band and two female backing
vocalists. The band is made up of some of Durban’s most proficient musicians.
Led by musical director Nicole Couto-Leite and with Wade Wight (keyboards),
Jill Murraybrown (bass), Graham Buckle (drums), Andy Turrell (lead guitar), and
John Skuy (acoustic guitar/percussion). Backing vocals are by Marion Loudon and
Tammy Saville.
Boy, can this
combination rock! Their skilful and effervescent performance lays the perfect
background for Weich to display his talents.
Weich has a strong
and versatile voice. He is equally adept at displaying the sensitivity and
emotion required for some of the slower ballads as he is with belting out the
rock and roll hits. He also has all the moves and had female members of the
audience squealing in delight at his hip movements.
His costumes are
made for him by his wife. They are magnificent. Elvis himself would have been
envious of them. He also has an easy self-effacing charm and relates very well
with the audience.
The music speaks
for itself. In the region of 28 of Elvis’ hits are performed during the show.
It is hard to pick out highlights but my favourites were Heartbreak Hotel, My Way, American
Trilogy, Jailhouse Rock and Suspicious Minds. Also worth mentioning is
backing singers, Marion Loudon and Tammy Saville’s, high energy and sexy
version of You’re The Devil In Disguise.
These two are magnificent in their roles and contribute a huge amount to the
show.
If you are in the
mood for a party get yourself down to the Rhumbelow Theatre. Elvis - The King: Now and Forever is a
slick and professional tribute to a musical icon. It will have you clapping and
stomping along and dancing in the aisles. Certainly the King of Rock and Roll
lives forever in our hearts.
The show runs at
the Rhumbelow Theatre until September 7 with performances on Fridays and
Saturdays at 20h00 and Sundays at 18h30. There is an extra matinee performance
on September 7 at 14h00. The venues open 90 minutes before show for picnic
dinner. Tickets R120 (lR100 pensioners) Block bookings of 8 or more for the
first weekend only.
Take along food
picnic baskets. Braais will be available at Rhumbelow in Durban. There is
limited secure parking and booking is essential. A cash bar is available (no
alcohol may be brought on to the premises). Rhumbelow Theatre is situated in
Cunningham Avenue off Bartle Road.
Booking is through
Computicket or contact Roland on 031 205 7602 (h) or 082 499 8636, email roland@stansell.za.net or info@durbantheatre.com or visit www.rhumbelow.za.net – Keith Millar
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