Million Dollar Quartet Preview Night

Last Tuesday night, theatregoers were treated to a preview of the play Million Dollar Quartet at Theatre Aquarius.  On his Facebook page, ETA Matt Cage, who stars as Elvis Presley in the play, informed followers that Tuesday was a “Pay What You Can” preview night.  I was not aware such a bargain was offered by the theatre, so I am grateful to Matt for posting the information, and also grateful to ETA fan and friend, Dot Farr, for sending me a message about the preview event.  I intended on buying a ticket next week, but Tuesday night's offer was too good to pass up. 

Tuesday was my fourth time in two years seeing Million Dollar Quartet.  The first time was a touring production that performed at the Avalon Theatre at Fallsview Casino.  It was good entertainment, but the actor who played Elvis, while a good singer, was probably not an Elvis Tribute Artist, since the passion and understanding for the role that an ETA brings to their Elvis tribute, seemed to be missing.  The second time I saw MDQ was at the Drayton Opera House last summer.  Matt Cage, as a professional and award winning ETA, brought so much more to the part than just acting and singing the role of Elvis Presley.  During the duration of the play, Matt embodied the King of Rock and Roll and brought an authenticity to his performance that only an ETA can deliver.  Theatregoers who had not seen an ETA perform before were blown away by Matt’s performance.  In a play where the most riotous lines and actions belong to the character Jerry Lee Lewis--so skillfully delivered at Drayton by actor Gerrard Everard, Matt’s presence on stage was mesmerizing.  My experience at Drayton MDQ, which I detailed in an earlier blog, makes that particular performance one of my most memorable theatre moments.  It was such a wonderful evening that I bought a second ticket for the following week. 

What I enjoy the most about live theatre is that you can see the same play over and over again and never tire of the experience.  Each director brings something new to their interpretation of the play.  I know the storyline quite well from previous productions, but last Tuesday the nuances that director Ron Ulrich brought to the stage made the production fresh and exciting.  I didn’t have to wait long to see Matt on stage, as he was part of the opening number.  I found the role of Elvis to be more prominent during Tuesday’s play.  The characters of Elvis and Dyanne presented a lively connection throughout the play.  When I last saw Matt in MDQ, his character was primarily positioned on stage left.  But for this production, Elvis performs most often centre stage.    

The cast of professional actors, singers and musicians performed their respective roles with panache.  The vocals were stellar, and the response from the audience was palatable.  When I glanced across the front row of seats, I could see a lot of foot tapping and head bobbing to the music.  Each individual performance was met with vigorous applause and cheers from the enthusiastic theatre patrons.  I attended Tuesday’s preview performance primarily to see Matt reprise his role as Elvis.  Having performed in MDQ numerous times over the past year at several Canadian theatres (Stage West Calgary, Drayton Entertainment, Royal MTC Winnipeg, Western Canada Theatre Kamloops, and CAA Theatre in Toronto), Matt brings a polished performance to Theatre Aquarius, Hamilton. 

Set and costume designer, Ivan Brozic, brings 1956 to life in fine fashion.  Marisa McIntyre, who plays the role of Elvis’s fictitious girlfriend, Dyanne, and who delivered a killer rendition of the song “Fever”, looked stunning in her 50’s styled costumes.  The artfully designed stage setting, along with great sound and lighting, gave an authentic 50s vibe.  During the last few minutes of the play, the four main characters, Carl, Johnny, Jerry Lee, and Elvis, dressed in bedazzled jackets, take the stage for an all-out finale.  First-class performances of each character’s signature song brought the audience to their feet.  Dressed in his gold, rhinestone studded jacket, Matt demonstrated with his performance why he has a legion of fans.  One lucky lady was rewarded with a scarf for her enthusiasm during Matt's electrifying performance.  The audience was encouraged by all the actors to sing along during the finale.  Having the audience participate was great fun, and everyone left feeling very good about their evening at Theatre Aquarius.     

I encourage everyone to buy a ticket to see Million Dollar Quartet at Theatre Aquarius.  Whether it is your first or fourth time, you will enjoy this production.  Excelling in their roles, Kevin Aichele as Johnny Cash and Kale Penny as Carl Perkins, with long lists of professional theatre credits, give must-see performances.  Christo Graham, as a fiery Jerry Lee Lewis, is uproarious.  The character of Jerry Lee has some of the best lines in the play, and Christo delivers them brilliantly.  Maria McIntyre, an award winning actress and singer, brings power and beauty to her vocals and presence on stage.  Leon Wiley is splendid in the role of Sam Phillips beautifully conveying the emotions that his character experiences.  The four leads, who all play an instrument, are accompanied by Justin Ruppel as W.S. “Flake” Holland, and Evan Stewart as Brother Jay, who both bring musical expertise to their debut roles at Theatre Aquarius and round out a great cast.  Musical Director, Van Wilmott, brings his years as a professional musician to this production of Million Dollar Quartet.  And all ETA fans will love Matt Cage in the role he has 'rehearsed' for more than seven years.

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Matt originally had planned on meeting theatre goers in the lobby; however, a cast meeting necessitated a change in plans.  ETA fans know that the after show meet-and-greet is an integral part of the ETA/Fan relationship.  Photos are not allowed during the play; however I was able to snap a couple of photos of Matt as he left the theatre that I am pleased to share.  Thank you, Matt.  

Matt and other actors plan on appearing in the lobby after upcoming regular performances.

I wish to thank Irene, Michael, and Cathy who through their kind gesture ensured I was able to get a great seat for viewing the play for this article.

See you all soon, perhaps at my fifth MDQ performance!  Best regards, Carolyn

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Niagara Falls Elvis Festival Media Event

This morning, Wednesday, April 11, 2018, I attended a special media launch in anticipation of the second annual Niagara Falls Elvis Festival that takes place on three consecutive days next weekend, Friday, April 20th to Sunday, April 22nd, at the Greg Frewin Theatre in Niagara Falls.

Niagara Falls Mayor James Diodati proclaims April 2018 as Niagara Falls Elvis Festival Month.  

The well-organized event this morning, which was attended by all facets of media, began with a reception and meet-and-greet over a continental breakfast.  We were then asked to take a seat in the theatre where Tony Busseri, Co-Founder of ARB Productions, welcomed everyone, and introduced a video recording of Niagara Falls Mayor James Diodati proclaiming the month of April 2018 as “Niagara Falls Elvis Festival Month".  Following the proclamation, we were treated to dazzling magic acts presented by master magician, Greg Frewin. 

Magician Greg Frewin prepares to work his magic. 

In his first feat of magic, Greg drew a picture of a bowling ball on a two dimensional pad of paper, and out of nowhere a bowling ball fell from the pages!  In his second act, Greg’s assistant stepped inside a curtained box, and proceeded to remove her shoes, gloves, and dress.  Greg handed his assistant a bustier, which we all assumed she would be wearing when the curtains dropped.  I gasped, along with those seated behind me, when the curtains fell and ETA Richard Wolfe, dressed in a gold jacket, appeared in place of Greg’s assistant!

ETAs Richard Wolfe and Bruno Nesci.

Richard, who will be competing next weekend, entertained us with Elvis songs from the 50s.  ETA Bruno Nesci, dressed in a blue 70s jumpsuit, and who is also competing in the festival, followed Richard, and sang Elvis concert selections, ending with “Suspicious Minds”.  It was a brilliant demonstration of what audiences can look forward to next weekend, and certainly succeeded in creating a media buzz.

Co-Founder of ARB Productions, Tony Busseri.

The succeeding slideshow presentation was very informative.  Of special interest to SIDEBURNS Magazine followers:  On Sunday, April 15th, 2018, a free community event will be held at Greg Frewin Theatre from 11:30 am to 3:00 pm.  Elvis Tribute Artists will be in attendance, and children can look forward to a bouncy castle, slide, and Elvis karoke.  Food and beverages will be provided at the family friendly event.  This event is made possible from grants from the Province of Ontario and the City of Niagara Falls.  Another event ETA fans will enjoy is the panel discussion that takes place on Saturday, April 21st, in the Conference Hall, Greg Frewin Theatre, from 4:30 to 6:00 pm.   

Frank Busseri, Co-Founder of ARB Productions is also a member of the singing group, The Four Lads. 

History and details of the Niagara Falls Elvis Festival were discussed during the presentation.  Tony Busseri, and his brother, Frank, an original, and still performing, member of The Four Lads, started ARB Productions twenty-eight years ago.  They began producing dinner theatre shows that featured legendary performers and tribute artists.  Eleven years ago, after seeing the beauty in the Las Vegas styled setting of the Greg Frewin Theatre, they formed a partnership with Greg Frewin.  The success of last year’s Niagara Falls Elvis Festival ensured there would be a second annual festival this April.  The winning ETA from the NF Elvis Festival will go to Memphis in August to compete with over 20 ETAs from around the world.  ETAS who entered NF Elvis Festival pay their own transportation to the event, and also pay a fee to enter.  The NF Elvis Festival is licensed by Elvis Presley Enterprises.  This year, Dean Z, a very popular ETA from last year's festival, will appear on Friday, April 20th, in “The DEAN Z Show”.   Music accompaniment will be provided by the Hired Hitmen band.

Richard, Bruno, Greg, and Tony answered questions. 

Sixteen competing ETAs on Saturday will be reduced to ten for Sunday’s competition.  On Sunday the ten will be reduced to five after judging is completed.  In addition to the crowning of an overall winner, a People’s Choice prize will be presented. During a Q&A with Tony, Greg, Richard, and Bruno, a question about song choice was answered.  ETAs send their top twenty song choices to Tony prior to the competition.  In round one of the competition, each of the sixteen ETAs sings two songs.  After an intermission, the competitors sing another two songs.  Richard explained that, of course, each ETA hopes that the song that they feel is their signature song is one of the songs they are awarded.  From the organizer’s point of view, variety is important, as an audience does not want to hear the same song sung sixteen times.

I was pleased to hear that B&K Enterprises Costume Co. will be represented at the festival, since I posted my interview with Butch Polston on February 17th, 2018.  Unfortunately Butch and Kim will not be attending, but I look forward to meeting their representative, Robin Theobald.  I am also looking forward to seeing the following performers:

·        Dean Z

·        Tim E Hendry

·        Justin Shandor

·        Diogo Light

·        Victor J Hanson

·        Connor Russo

·        Sandy Vine

·        Riley Jenkins

·        Casino Brothers Band

and the 16 competitors:

·        Sylvain Leduc, Valleyfield, Quebec

·        Richard Wolfe, Hamilton, Ontario

·        Bruno Nesci, Woodbridge, Ontarioc

·        Cote Deonath, Ocala, Florida

·        Mike Calamusa, Belleville, Ontario

·        Eric Evangelista, Bolton, Ontario

·        Jeff Gordon, Dallas, Texas

·        Marnie Mackintosh, Manitoba, Canada

·        Patrick Johnson, Lake View, New York

·        Peter Doiron, London, Ontario

·        Taylor Rodriguez, Lynchburg, Virgina

·        James Gibb, Harrow, Ontario

·        Dave Weaver, Arkport, New York

·        Norm Ackland, Windsor, Ontario

·        Mark Shelton, Newport, Vermont

·        Joey Cundari, Brampton, Ontario

and all the fans!

Heather Busseri, Associate Producer & Media, and daughter-in-law of Tony Busseri. 

I wish to thank everyone at ARB Productions and Greg Frewin Theatre for making me feel so welcome at today’s media launch.  I look forward to seeing you all next weekend.  Best regards, Carolyn MacArthur.

ETA Bruno Nesci, Tony Busseri, Co-Founder of ARB Productions, Carolyn MacArthur, Editor of SIDEBURNS Magazine, and ETA Richard Wolfe.  Photo Credit:  Chris Chabot, Digital Creative Marketing Manager, Greg Frewin Theatre and Niagara Falls Elvis Festival.  

http://www.niagarafallselvisfestival.com    https://www.facebook.com/niagarafallselvisfestival   https://twitter.com/NFallsElvisFest

Recap of ETA Brent Freeman's Friday Night Show

Introduction

By now, a good number of people have seen Kimberley Clark’s wonderful photos and videos  that I shared on Facebook.  I am so appreciative that Kimberley’s husband, Hugh,  captured ETA Brent Freeman's encore performance of "Steamroller  Blues"; otherwise, no proof would exist of what I get up to on Friday nights ;)  What follows is my recap of Friday night’s show, in words, along with some still shots that I took during the evening.  I try to include everyone in my photo recaps, but sometimes it isn't possible due to the quality of the photo or because of space restrictions.   If you have photos you would like me to add, please send them along.

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Linda Sutherland drove from Barrie to see ETA Brent Freeman perform at Flamboro Downs.

Friday, April 6th, 2018 will go down in ETA history books as one heck of a memorable night.  I thought it was a treat last Saturday seeing Brent in a tux as Buddy Holly, and then in his Jerry Lee Lewis wig; but I have to say last night, for me, topped both of those performances.  Until last night, I had only seen a YouTube video of Brent’s winning ETA performance at Collingwood, so I was pleased to see him in person sporting the white striped jacket from his win.  He told us he was going to get “sparklier, and sparklier” as the evening went on--and he didn’t disappoint. 

ETA Brent Freeman looking splendid in his gold jacket.

For his second set, Brent looked splendid in his gold jacket with rhinestone trim.  He commented that the lights at the casino did not make his jacket sparkle.  (In last week’s recap, I commented on how Matt literally “dazzled” on stage, so maybe Brent was reminded of that comment because I am sure he reads all my blogs…lol).  Brent took the stage for his third set wearing a black jumpsuit with a green scarf, borrowed wig, sideburns, and silver glasses that completed the look.  And the look was spectacular!

Barely recognizable, ETA Brent Freeman signing autographs.

We were all so pleased that Brent chose Flamboro to wear his jumpsuit for the first time at a public show.  He normally reserves his jumpsuit for private gigs.  Most of the ETAs we see at Flamboro opt not to wear a jumpsuit because ETAs are not provided with a proper dressing room, and it is easier to change into a different jacket on stage for each set.*  After last night’s fantastic reception to his “new” look, that was met with whistles and "wows" from the audience,  I have a feeling we will see a lot more of Brent in a jumpsuit at public venues.        

The comment I heard the most last night from the ladies who attend almost every ETA event at Flamboro, and who know Brent, as I do, from being in charge of the music for ETA Matt Cage’s shows, was that they did not know he could sing like that.  I didn’t know that either!   Up to last night, the only singing we heard Brent do at Flamboro Downs, was the  high pitched female voice he did as backup during of one of Matt’s song.  So we were all amazed at Brent’s deep, powerful voice when he effortlessly belted out the big Elvis songs of the 70s, from “American Trilogy” to “Hurt”.   Brent's win at Collingwood was for the Early Years, but after last night's stellar performance, we hope he will include a jumpsuit set in all his Elvis tribute performances.   

Buck responds to the attention from ETA Brent Freeman with good humour.

Brent’s tech person for the evening was Alexya who did a splendid job of cuing the music and acting as Brent’s scarf lady when he handed out scarves.  Their height differences led to a humorous comment from Brent as he bent over backwards so Alexya could put the scarves around his neck.  Another source of humour during the show was Brent’s friend, fan, and amateur photographer, Buck O’Dell, who was the brunt of jokes about their mock ‘bromance’.  It was all in good fun, as the photo will attest.

During Brent’s encore song, “Steamroller Blues”, Brent’s girlfriend, Suzy, in a surprise move, jumped on stage.  And even more surprisingly, Suzy asked Dot, Kimberley, and me to join her.  It was such fun being part of Brent’s backup singers and dancers for the final song. 

Suzy with her dear mom, Maria.

In conclusion, I would definitely add last night’s show  to the list of most entertaining evenings at Flamboro Downs.  With Brent’s natural gift for showmanship, it was more like a party than a show.  Brent has a way of making everyone feel that they are an important part of  his show.  He addresses people by name if he knows them, and he makes personal contact with new faces in the crowd.  ETAs know that the wonderful people who attend their shows add to the success of the evening.  Dot, Barb, Linda, Maria, Marian, Kimberley, Susie, Suzy, Sona, Bertha, Buck, and Frances, to name a few--all lovely people, and dedicated ETA fans and friends, made Friday night's show so much fun.  I am looking forward to seeing  you all at the next show!  Best regards, Carolyn.

*Both ETAs Kevin Mills and Bruno Nesci  wore  jumpsuits during their Flamboro shows; and ETA Sylvain Leduc spoiled us by wearing a different jumpsuit for each of his three sets during his first time at Flamboro Downs.  But generally ETAs wear a 50's sport jacket or 60's speedway jacket for quick, convenient costume changes.

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The Evening in Photos

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