Elvises return to the building

April 11, 2008

By ALDRICH M. TAN

"Blue Suede Shoes: A Tribute to Elvis" returns for the second time to Oshkosh, and one of two performing tribute artists said the duo has surprises for even returning fans. Mike Albert, who performs as an older Elvis, said he plans to perform different songs this year for the Elvis tribute show, which is today and Saturday at the Grand Opera House.

"I always keep track of the shows that we have done before so I'm going to change the line-up, because there are so many and they are so diverse," Albert said. "We do it from the early Sun Sessions to the Vegas and on-tour songs."

The show is intended to span Presley's career for fans.

"It's really high energy and both guys look and sound like Elvis," said Meridith Hankenson, owner of the agency ACTS Inc., based in Tampa, Fla. "It's just going to be a really exciting, fun and reverent tribute."

The two are considered by some to be top Elvis impersonators in the country. Scot Bruce is the official Elvis impersonator in Disneyland and he has appeared in a Pizza Hut commercial and on the E! Channel.

Bruce will appear as the first half of the show accompanied by the Big E Band performing Presley's earlier material, such as "Jailhouse Rock" and "Hound Dog," Hankenson said. Following an intermission, Albert will be performing Presley's later material, such as "Love Me Tender" and "Viva Las Vegas."

Albert said he is looking forward to his return to the Grand.

"It's such a nice theater," he said. "It's just gorgeous."

Albert and Bruce will be available after the shows for autographs and photos, Albert added.

Aldrich M. Tan: (920) 426-6663 or atan@thenorthwestern.com

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