By JENA MARINO
Performing in Memphis was “something special” for Elvis impersonator Mark Anthony.
But he’s still excited about coming to Geelong for the first time.
“I can’t wait to get there,” Anthony told the Independent.
“It’s a place I’ve often thought about going to.”
Anthony played the home of Elvis – Memphis, USA – after winning the title of South Pacific Ultimate Elvis Grand Champion in 2007 and 2008. Elvis Presley Enterprises runs the competition.
Since then he has performed around the world, including Elvis Week in Graceland for the past eight years during the anniversary of The King’s death.
He cherished the experience.
“Playing in Memphis is something special,” Anthony said.
But the Adelaide-born entertainer still considered that Australia had the best crowds, which he described as “louder” than any other country.
“Being able to be home in Australia and play, it has another kind of spectrum because I’m home and I get to be me.”
Anthony said he was an Elvis fan “first and foremost”, so he strived to make his two-hour show as authentic as possible for the audience.
“A certain amount of respect comes across. I’m just another fan, I don’t think I am Elvis,” he said.
After growing up playing in bands, Anthony said he had now gained a recording contract in the US for his original songs and was working on a country rock album, to be released later this year.
“It was because of Elvis that I landed a recording contract – I thought my days were over.”
Anthony will perform Elvis In Concert – I’ll Remember You at Geelong Performing Arts Centre on 27 February.
