Do not expect to a typical ‘Vegas-style’ parody act when you see Travis LeDoyt perform as the “King of Rock & Roll” at 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 12 at the Woodward Arts Theatre.
Although his resemblance to Elvis Presley is quite remarkable, you won’t find Travis LeDoyt wearing a flashy gold jacket or greeting folks backstage with a curled lip. Rather you will experience what an Elvis concert was like when The King played during the beginning of his career in the 1950’s.
Since 2000 LeDoyt, who is based in Nashville, has toured the world performing what has been called by critics as “one of the most convincing, jaw-dropping tribute acts to ever grace the stage.”
LeDoyt said he prefers to wear clothes that capture what he considers to be the true essence of Elvis during his prime. Because before the days of sequined jumpsuits, Elvis set him self apart by wearing such fashions as dress pants and western style shirts.
“Elvis didn’t really wear the flashy costumes when he performed in auditoriums during the 1950’s. I’m always searching for clothes at vintage stores that were are more authentic to what Elvis wore,” LeDoyt said.
In addition to comparable digs, LeDoyt said the musical instruments and microphones have a vintage theme as well. He said, “the instrumentation is updated to improve the quality of the sound, but we try and replicate the album as close as we can.”
LeDoyt is supported by a three-piece band featuring bass, guitar and drums. He said the energy they put into the show musically and physically takes his audience back to a genuine 1950’s concert.
“Many people will come up to me and say the performance made them feel like they are 15-years-old again,” he said.
LeDoyt said his act concentrates on the young Elvis at the beginning of his music career when he produced the majority of his No. 1 hits. He said the audience will hear songs from the recognizable records such as “Heartbreak Hotel,” “Blue Suede Shoes” and “Jail House Rock.”
“I really do love the music and I hope to bring a part of him back to his fans that loved him," LeDoyt said. "But it’s nice to seeing a new generation of Elvis fans too."
Although his natural mannerisms and personality are strikingly similar to Elvis, LeDoyt said, “I think it is important to know when to turn it on and off. Some impersonators can get lost in it- for me it’s important to be your own person off-stage.”
Tickets are available at the Woodward Arts Theater or by calling 256-7120. More information about Travis LeDoyt can be found at his website www.travisledoyt.com.
