They called him The King of Rock and Roll. Elvis the Pelvis. The Hardest Working Man in Hollywood. You may have even heard him referred to as “The Hillbilly Cat,” reflecting Presley’s blend of country and rock, and “The Memphis Flash”, in homage to his hometown and energetic performances. Theatre By The Sea presents this hip-swiveling, soul-stirring acclamation to Elvis Presley’s early years, from his impoverished childhood to global fame, combining musical nostalgia with theatrical prowess. Written by Sean Cercone and David Abbinanti, Heartbreak Hotel reaches beyond a mere musical tribute, with Floyd Mutrux’s script adding such emotional depth. Never overshadowed by swagger and sequins, this charismatic yet poignant tribute to the legend’s notable career features the music only he could make. Elvis sang it all, from heartfelt ballads to infectious rhythms that made the ladies scream.
“Elvis Presley! Need I say more?” said owner/Producer Bill Hanney. “Although he’s been gone for decades, he’s still as popular as ever! His special blend of music, his stage presence, and his ability to captivate an audience all contributed to his becoming a legend. Heartbreak Hotel is a very special show which celebrates one of the best-selling music icons of all time. What a great way to close out the season!”
Directed and choreographed by Nikki Snelson, the production, featuring over 40 Elvis hits and iconic songs, captures The King’s magnetism while exploring emotional undercurrents of stardom, family, and artistic identity. Set during his early rise, Heartbreak Hotel is more than a sentimental jukebox musical. It’s a snapshot into a prodigy’s fame, ambition, and the people who supported him along his incredible journey. Opening with creative strobes (lighting by Paul Jonathan Davis) and unconstrained energy, lead actor Joe Hebel launches into “That’s All Right.” We then get swept into the superstar’s whirlwind rise to fame from Sun Studio to household name. His emblematic numbers like “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Jailhouse Rock,” and of course “Heartbreak Hotel” take us through his rocketing fame, and later frustration.
With this, Hebel doesn’t simply impersonate the superstar, he slips into those blue suede shoes, offering a stacked portrayal that convincingly balances stardom’s lure with the loneliness this historically merciless industry often brings. Emma Wilcox as Priscilla harmonizes beautifully with Hebel, and adeptly morphs from vivacious young lady to frustrated wife and mother. You’d love to see more of her, but the lens is focused on Elvis.
Indya Cherise portrays Sister Rosetta Tharpe, the unheralded champion of Elvis’s early love of music, who offers shrewd maternal mentoring in a world dominated by egotistical men. Even amid the high-energy musical numbers and hopping choreography, Cherise’s depth and magnetic presence anchor with emotional depth and calm intensity. You’ll be mesmerized by her poignant monologue describing the cost of chasing greatness, giving voice to the industry’s overlooked women. With subtle gestures, Cherise captures the complexity of a woman navigating her own dreams, disappointments and compromises, believing in Elvis long before the rest of the world.
The production delves into Elvis’s bonds with key figures such as: Sam Phillips and Frank Sinatra, both portrayed by Kevin Patrick Martin; his complex relationship with Colonel Tom Parker, as portrayed by Kevin. B. McGlynn; and with his beloved mother, Gladys, in a heartfelt portrayal by Melanie Souza. This solemnity humanizes the celebrity, adding mental weight while reminding us behind the fame was a young human struggling with ambition, family, identity and loss.
Musical direction by James Woods and sound design by Ryan Marsh keep arrangements authentic to the intimate solos and incendiary ensemble numbers. While the music is undeniably the appeal, it’s the ensemble cast’s delivery of these spirited renditions that gives the production its soul.
Scenic design by Cassie McKnight evokes the camaraderie of Sun Records and the rich tradition of Memphis culture. Original costume design by Travis M. Grant transports us to 1950s and ‘60s flair, from rhinestone-studded jumpsuits to capri pants.
‘Kid Elvis’ Laird LaCoste opened the show, evoking a powerful emotional response with an adorable vulnerability that extends beyond cuteness. He’s got the chops, charm and presence of a future king. Alternating performances are shared by Brandon Lopes.
Whether you’re a huge Elvis fan or simply love a well-executed musical, this production achieves the right pitch. With powerful performances, impactful musical numbers, and heartfelt storytelling, it’s a great way to close out your summer— all shook up! Come see before it leaves the building!
TBTS presents Heartbreak Hotel through September 14. For more information, visit https://www.theatrebythesea.com/elvis.html.