The life of Elvis Presley is a source of many books, TV shows, and movies. The latest production by the Riverside Center For The Performing Arts, “Heartbreak Hotel” is a portrait of the late singer’s life from early childhood to his 1968 Comeback Special.
While the show has some issues with pacing and is somewhat loose with historical details, fine performances by the cast, superb choreography, and a kicking live band make for a very enjoyable experience.
The musical and dance numbers feature not just Elvis, but also the Black artists who inspired him such as Roy Brown (played by Leo Jasper Davis) and Sister Rosetta Tharpe (played by Tayandra Allan). Some of Elvis’ early hits are sung by the ensemble, with fine choreography directed by Jacques Linder-Long and Stephanie Wood…