It’s one for the money, two for the show, three to get ready now go, cat, go to Circa 21 to take in its current production of Heartbreak Hotel a supersonic retelling of the life of the King of Rock and Roll – the one, the only, Elvis Presley directed by Scott Moreau with choreography by Andrea Moore.
When I say “supersonic” I mean supersonic. The King’s rise to fame and fortune was meteoric and lasted a couple of decades. Condensing it down to two hours likens it to skipping stones across a pond, briefly touching here and there and hitting only what are probably the most well-known memories of his life and career. There are a whopping 15 scenes in the first act and 13 scenes in the second. As a result songs were abbreviated and we never really got into the music until the finale of “Jail House Rock” that electrified the audience.
Wisely and discreetly, the show ends at the pinnacle of Elvis’ success and doesn’t delve into his eventual prescription drug abuse, decline, and untimely death.
Portrayal of one of the most famous celebrities ever to sing a note has to be intimidating, but Corey McKinney more than fills the bill not only by physical appearance but also adopting the King’s iconic gyrations. As Elvis’ first manager, Sam Phillips, is the Quad Cities’ own Tristan Layne Tapscott, and the sleazy Colonel Tom Parker is a Quad Cities’ favorite, Tom Walljasper, and his talented bride, Shelley, portrays Elvis’ mother Gladys.
Oh, and the Bootleggers put on one of – if not, THE – best pre-shows I’ve seen. They were able to find songs that actually referenced Elvis and his career in the lyrics instead of performing his actual songs. It was fresh and delightful.
Are you lonesome tonight? Don’t get all shook up. It’s now or never; get on down to Rock Island to take in this show.
Heartbreak Hotel continues at Circa ‘21 Dinner Playhouse, 1828 – 3rd Avenue in Rock Island through May 3rd with matinee performances on Wednesdays, evening performances Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays and Dinner performances on Sundays. I should add that tickets are now available for purchase online.
And, yes, at the risk of sounding like a broken record, massive street construction continues right in front of the theatre so parking remains at a premium.
I’m Chris Hicks…break a leg.