For Elvis Presley impersonator Donny Edwards, who will be performing at the Maclab Centre for Performing Arts on Oct. 21, his start as an imitator began when he started to get comments on his looks.
"It wasn't until I got into my teenage years that I looked like Elvis or resembled him in some way. I personally didn't see it until years later when I kept getting more reactions and my nickname became 'Elvis,'" said the Las Vegas resident.
It was his resemblance to the King mixed with his southern accent that won him an Elvis look-a-like contest back in 2002, where he then was chosen for a special concert in Las Vegas.
Despite earning a degree in computer science, Edwards' Elvis career has exploded, allowing him to tour the world with his act, including his most recent stint with the Elvis Elvis Elvis show coming to Leduc.
Edwards describes the show as "all three decades of Elvis's career," with two other impersonators joining Edwards on stage.
Practicing three to four times a week and continuously watching Elvis movies and concert footage, Edwards tries to be as authentic to the King of Rock 'n Roll as he possibly can during his performance
"When I first started to do this, I said I wanted to do it right. For the outside world, lots of people view Elvis impersonators as cheesy or in another world, but I think if you go out there with the mindset of doing what Elvis did and loved, then you'll be safe," he said, adding hardcore Elvis fans will notice the tiniest little movement of the hips or hands when the performance is done right.
"Something I may have seen a hundred times during an Elvis movie, I may not have picked up on, like him playing with his rings.
But when I add something like that, sometimes a fan will notice and it just adds more to the elusion we try to create by reliving Elvis's memories."
When asked if the King of Pop will ever lose popularity, the mimic emphasized that even though he has been dead since 1977, his legend lives on in the impersonators and fans.
"He had the perfect essence of good looks, great voice, great personality and very giving. I think he was very appreciative for what he had from nothing to become the first superstar that we have known," said Edwards.
"In many ways after his death, we're still benefiting from him because of his explosion and amazing talent. Guys like myself are able to make a living because of him."
The Elvis tribute show starts at 8 p.m. on Oct. 21 at the Maclab Centre and tickets are still available at 780-420-1757.
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