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By Jessica Jefferson

AHOSKIE – Elvis Presley, “The King of Rock and Roll,” has probably influenced more musicians and entertainers than any other legend in music history. From his entry into the music industry in 1956, until his death in 1977, his style of music and movement on stage, has motivated the creative and fearless expression of todays artists across all genres of music.

From his upbringing is stark poverty, to his generous contributions to his loyal fans, Elvis has invigorated the hopes and dreams of those who have had to fight for their place to shine among the stars. The charismatic power, that obviously permeated out of the very bones of Elvis, has left a trail of influence in thousands of songs written, by thousands of artists worldwide.

“Elvis Alive,” a musical play written by Adam King, tells of a family whose lives have been touched by the power of influence. The word influence means, “The capacity to have an effect on the character, development, or behavior of someone or something, or the effect itself.” George, the head of the family, was introduced to Elvis at the age of twelve, when he heard a DJ announce his death on the radio. George’s life, at that moment, began to go in a direction that was steered by the influence of his idol, and governed by George’s passion to express it.

Several members of the family in this musical play, have had their own person of influence that has helped to define their life choices, whether in career or in appearance. Luke, Beth, Lilly, and Hank are like everyone else in the world who decided to direct their focus on someone who stirred up within them a desire to be different. Every human being knows, deep inside, that they were meant to bring lasting influence to another human being.

In today’s society, we are influenced by so many things that cause us to become distracted and forget the importance of discovering how we are meant to bring change and influence the world. We all have been given many gifts and talents, but most of the time, we are pulled away by what is influencing us on the outside that we forget to go inside and discover who we are really meant to be.

This play will be a reminder to everyone that although people and situations do influence each one of us, it’s still up to every person to choose how we let those things effect us. In this play, we will see how certain characters were positively influenced by people and situations that helped them develop their careers and achieve their goals and dreams. We will also see how negative experiences influenced one character in particular, and how it effected his life. Each one of these experiences will be a springboard for songs recorded by Elvis. They will take you down memory lane and remind you of things you have experienced throughout your own journey in life.

Though humorous and lighthearted, this play will also show depth and hopefully inspire you look at people and situations in a different light. Anyone who has had the privilege to see Elvis in concert will tell you that it was the experience of a lifetime.

The Gallery Theatre strives to be a place where the community can gather together to relax and experience shows that bring joy to everyone. We hope that this show will spark your imagination, and bring a sense of hope and inspiration that you will carry with you throughout the years.

If you would like to come and be a part of the Elvis Alive experience, show times are Saturday, April 1 at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, April 2 at 2:30 p.m. Tickets are available online at gallerytheatreahoskie.com or at the door.