Elvis Swaggers in "Heartbreak Hotel" at Marriott Theatre
Elvis fans will rejoice at this fun, high-energy and meaningful show now playing at the Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire. This jukebox musical, built around the early rise of Elvis Presley, aims to capture not just the music, but the myth and succeeds with power and passion.
Set in 1950s Memphis, the show traces Elvis’s journey from a poor, truck-driving dreamer to a cultural force who continues to attract music lovers of all ages since his untimely death in 1977.
But this isn’t just a cradle-to-Graceland biography. Instead, it focuses on those challenging years when rhythm and blues, gospel, and country collided against the great racial divide and helped ignite a musical revolution.
What makes this production sing—beyond the obvious crowd-pleasers like “Hound Dog,” “Blue Suede Shoes,” and “That’s All Right”—is the dancing that creates a sense of place. Director-choreographer Deidre Goodwin keeps the pace moving, while the ensemble pulses with energy and excitement.
The show uses three actors to play the boy, the teen and the grown-up Elvis, who all shine in their roles. Charles Adler Bischoff as the young Elvis is adorable, while Colton Sims as teen Elvis is part rebel, and raw talent.
Tyler Hanes, stepping into Elvis’s blue suede shoes, is sensational with all the right moves. His voice, physicality of shaking, and his sly grin capture the essence of Elvis’ charm.
Equally compelling are the figures orbiting him, particularly Jackson Evans as Sam Phillips, portrayed with a mix of vision and volatility and Rob Lindley as Colonel Tom Parker as a force to be reckoned with. The women, especially those representing the Black artists whose influence shaped his sound, are given their due.
Elizabeth Telford as Gladys Presley gives the role heart and soul, making the viewers understand Elvis’ deep commitment to her. Amanda Walker as Priscilla shines as his put-upon wife who must endure playing second fiddle in Elvis’ orbit. The production doesn’t ignore the cultural tensions of the era; rather, it threads them thoughtfully through the narrative without derailing the momentum.
Musically, the show is a knockout. The live band on stage, integrated seamlessly into the action, delivers a sound that is pure, urgent, and joyfully unpolished. It’s the kind of score that makes you want to tap your foot, then stand up, then—before you know it—lose yourself entirely in the rhythm.
Heartbreak Hotel isn’t trying to be definitive; it’s trying to make you feel something—to transport you to a moment when music changed everything.
And at the Marriott Theatre, it does just that—with a whole lot of heart, soul, and swiveling hips.
