Elvis and Superstars - A small but mighty show

Elvis and the Superstars, in the Owens theater downtown ( bransons oldest at nearly 70yrs old ), does a very enjoyable rendition of Elvis, along with a dozen or so other various impersonations all done by Dave " Elvis" Eller.

Dave does a nice job of mixing it up with the audience, getting up close and personal numerous times during the show. He makes you a little part of the show, without worried about being embarrassed by having to be on stage ( as in some shows, some folks really aren't up to being singled out THAT much ).

Dave isn't the Best "Elvis" in town, but I think he IS one of the most entertaining of the "Elvi" around. That in of itself, makes this a very good show. Not just standing up and trying to re-create Elvis, but entertain the audience so they enjoy an Elvis style show, with some nicely done comedy and impersonations.

Dave Eller does some hilarious renditions of Liberace, Willie Nelson Sonny and Cher ( with help from Cindi Barr )and Dean Martin, just to name a few, along with some quality jobs performing Neil Diamond, Johnny Mathis, and several others.

His supporting cast is small but mighty, but also being personable and talented they bring more talent and experience to the stage than some much larger casts in other shows.

All in all, it isn't "Just another Elvis show". Its a variety show, with Elvis, and nice impressions of other past and present performers with an able supporting group of cast members. Dave has very good comedic timing, and he doesn't "cross any lines" so that anyone can enjoy this show without worried about being offended. The supporting cast ad libs now and then and you get a nice feeling that they enjoy performing together and really work hard to get the audience into the show.

Dave does most of Elvis' hits, blue suede shoes, C C rider, hound dog, return to sender, and a host of others from Elvis' renowned Hawaii show back in the early 70's.

The down side ? The music can be a little glitchy here and there, as this isn't a "high tech" production. The photos shot onto the rear screen, both old movies and stills, are from barely adequate quality, to pretty good and enjoyable to watch.

The theater itself, really hasn't changed much in 70 yrs, which can be both good and bad. The seating is OK, if you are long legged, there are only a few seats with really good leg room, otherwise it can be a little cramped. But, that being said, the theater being left alone, emits a nice nostalgic aura, as you look at the very old frame work, and wonder about the likes of Gene Autry and Roy Rogers who performed there some long time ago.

Most folks will enjoy this show, as it mixes in more than the usual Elvis experience with comedy, good acting, nice supporting cast, and well rounded routines.
 

-David Penna