William Draper as Elvis performing “Jailhouse Rock.” Photo courtesy Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre.
“Elvis: A Musical Revolution” takes its audience on a nostalgic road trip (we like to imagine in a pink Cadillac) back to the 1950s. Staged at Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre in Lancaster, PA, the show presents a biography of Elvis Presley, from his childhood in the South to his television “comeback special” in 1968. The show, starring William Draper as Elvis, makes a daring decision which succeeds brilliantly— Mr. Draper’s physical appearance suggests Elvis, but not precisely. The star of the production does not merely mimic Elvis’ singing voice, but he makes the songs his own in a way which brings the singer’s music to life more fully than through mere imitation. Instead of a show with an Elvis impersonator, the production succeeds through recreating the dynamic spirit of Elvis. This deft strategy conveys the dynamism of the artist’s dramatic, and completely unexpected, appearance on the 1950s American popular musical scene which he soon came to dominate.
…the production succeeds through recreating the dynamic spirit of Elvis.
While Elvis’s triumphs are showcased, the production is also faithful in presenting his travails as well—the despair upon losing his mother, Gladys (a loving Josey Miller); his marital challenges with wife, Priscilla (a compelling Kathleen Macari); and his frustrations with his manager, Colonel Parker (a controlling Brandon Kallen) who committed him to star in mediocre films. Nonetheless, the show’s musical scenes from these very movies (such as “Harem Scarem” and “Viva Las Vegas”), while apparently not regarded highly by Presley himself, provide the show with a Broadway feel, complete with costumed dancers. It illustrates how Elvis’ personal magnetism overcame the limitations of uninspired filmmaking. Mr. Draper’s performance of “Jailhouse Rock,” from the movie of the same name, is particularly enjoyable. As with the choice of casting, the music is also allowed to breathe, with the songs often arranged differently from the original recordings. This serves to increase the vibrancy of the music, sometimes providing additional insight into the development of the unique sound of the man once styled as the King of Rock and Roll. Vignettes of Elvis’ childhood are crosscut with key moments in his career—his early recording sessions at Sun Records; his appearance at the Grand Old Opry; and his introduction to the broader American public on popular television programs such as “The Milton Berle Show.” Interleaved with Elvis staples such as “Heartbreak Hotel,” “That’s All Right,” “Hound Dog,” “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Are You Lonesome Tonight,” and “Can’t Help Falling in Love with You,” the performances by Mr. Draper and the orchestra, under the superb direction of JP Meyer, recall the original performances of the songs, while also saluting the context of their creation.
The show identifies some of the gospel traditions which influenced Elvis, such as Johnathon Lee’s moving rendition of “This Train Is Bound for Glory.” Moments such as these as well as a 1960 “Frank Sinatra Timex Show” give variety to the music. A recreation of a performance in which legendary singing star Frank Sinatra (Sam Pottinger) swings Presley’s “Love Me Tender” while Elvis takes on Sinatra’s pulsating “Witchcraft” are particularly welcome. At the same time, the show presents American society of the time, including both ecstatic and less-than-enthusiastic responses to Presley’s music and swiveling hips.
The show, directed by Dean Sobin, makes excellent use of the scenic design of Robert Kovach; the lighting and video patterns of Chris McCleary; and the props design of Nate Rush. These elements collaborate seamlessly for quick segues between Elvis’s childhood years; later scenes in his living room in his home at Graceland Mansion; and various performance venues and studios.
“Elvis: A Musical Revolution” showcases Elvis’s revolution of American popular music and snapshots of a bygone era of American culture. Most of all, it depicts why and how Elvis captured the hearts of his vast audience. In the words of one audience member, “I fell in love with Elvis all over again!”
Running time: Two hours and 30 minutes including one 15-minute intermission.
Advisory: May be inappropriate for young children.
“Elvis” A Musical Revolution” runs through June 24, 2023 at The Dutch Apple Dinner Theatre, 510 Centerville Road, Lancaster, PA 17601. For more information and to purchase tickets, call the Box Office at 717-898-1900 or go online. Masks are not required.
