Heartbreak Hotel Rocks The Marriott Lincolnshire Stage Through May 31
Has Elvis ever really left the building? There is always renewed interest in the “King of Rock and Roll. His enduring presence sparked a new sound in music. Heartbreak Hotel is a winning, official bio-musical tracing the rock star’s impact on the history of music and culture while battling his own personal tribulations. The musical features over 40 Elvis hits and iconic songs, including the title song: “Heartbreak Hotel,” “Blue Suede Shoes,” Love Me Tender,” “Hit the Road,” “Hound Dog,” Jailhouse Rock,” and more. Heartbreak Hotel at Marriott Lincolnshire offers a Broadway-style show with glitz and glamour galore in an intimate, cozy setting. The fabulous, multi-talented Deidre Goodwin directs and choreographs this high-energy smash hit. On press night, the audience’s standing ovation was overwhelmingly enthusiastic.
With a book by Sean Cercone and David Abbinati, based on a concept by Floyd Mutrux, a young Elvis, the famed rock star, faces a personal identity crisis on a journey through his life to rediscover his roots and the joy of music. I expected more of a light-hearted, joyful, entertaining, jukebox musical. Heartbreak Hotel has solid humor throughout. It is thoroughly entertaining, but more than that. It is not just a romp through Elvis greatest hits. It is a highly dramatic, sometimes dark, powerful rendition through timed snippets of Elvis’ life. We are engaged witnesses to his conflicts, depicting an artist tortured despite his mega-star status. This is an awesome show that grabs at your heartstrings.
Tyler Hanes, a Marietta, Georgia, son, best known for his Broadway Musical work, is flawless in the role of Elvis. He is not your typical parodied Elvis character. He superbly embodies the depth of the legendary rock-star king Elvis Presley. Charles Adler Bischoff is a terrific young actor who captivated the audience as Kid Elvis. Colton Sims is an adept, talented guitar-playing teen Elvis. He is also a member of the highly skilled, impressive ensemble. Colonel Tom Parker is expertly portrayed by 2010 Jeff Award Winner Rob Lindley. Elizabeth Telford conveys the warmth and close bond Gladys Presley, Elvis’ beloved mother, had with her son. Amanda Walker as Priscilla Presley switches adroitly from the adoring teen fan to the abandoned, resentful wife. Walker is an ensemble member.
Trevor Lindley Craft of Million Dollar Quartet: Christmas successfully executes multiple roles as Ronnie, DJ, Frank Sinatra, and ensemble member. My friend Donna had a hard time reconciling his appearance with Frank Sinatra’s looks, but his voice is there. Jackson Evan’s roles include Sam Phillips, Studio executive, and ensemble. Karl Hamilton is a credible Vernon Presley, Dewey, Stage manager, and ensemble member. NaiQui MacBroad is seen in a myriad of roles. He masterfully captures the bravura of Reverend Brewster. He is also cast as Johnny Bragg, Chuck, Jackie Brenston, Steve Allen Producer, Ed Sullivan Producer, and an ensemble member. Leah Morrow, a veteran of the Marriott stage, artfully plays both Marion Keisker and Tammy. She is an ensemble member.
Alexandra Palkovic is a stunning, sexy, sultry Ann Margaret and an ensemble member. She has Ann Margaret’s moves down pat. Zac Richey is Scotty Moore, Glen, and an ensemble member. Lucas Thompson portrays Ernie, Congressional Chairman, Customer, and an ensemble member. Elaine Watson is delightful as Betty, who supports Young Elvis’s interest in Blues and Gospel music. She is also an ensemble member. Frederick Webb, JR. plays Roy Brown, Otis, Fats, and an ensemble member. Ivan Bracy, Jr., is an integral member of the fantastic ensemble.
Anna Louise Bramlett a consummate actor dedicated to understanding and being understood. She is Dixie and an ensemble member. Melanie Brezill is the proud creator and producer of “The Grandmother Project.” She is a convincing Sister Rosetta Tharpe, the Godmother of Rock & Roll, and an ensemble member. Jake Busse of Million Dollar Quartet: Christmas ably plays Bill Black, Elvis ‘ bassist, Jerry, and an ensemble member. Hannah Remian is also an ensemble member.
It is difficult to pick a favorite musical number because all of the numbers were extraordinarily entertaining, but I was profoundly moved by the beauty of “Peace in the Valley” in the Act One Finale. As always, the Marriott Orchestra musicians, conducted by Keyboardist Christopher Sargent, were phenomenal. The support team of Artistic Director Peter Marston Sullivan, Production Manager Meg Love, Music Supervisor Ryan T. Nelson, and Associate Artistic Director Katie Johannigman created an awe-inspiring, creative production. Costume Designer Theresa Ham’s artistic creations were a wow, from the timely period fashions to the Las Vegas showgirl stage glamour.
Three-time Jeff Award winner, Anthony Churchill’s design, in his own words, “I create unique video experiences that interact with performers and space to tell stories in the most evocative and original ways.” Yes, he does, exactly that. Jesse Klug’s lighting design perfectly emphasizes the drama in Heartbreak Hotel. Miguel A. Armstrong’s artistic makeup and wigs were essential to the audience’s ability to readily identify the characters, who serve multiple roles. Great property design supporting the scenes and story is by Leo Bassow. The inspired scenic design is by award-winning Colette Pollard. Heartbreak Hotel’s sound designer is the esteemed Michael Daly, a 2025 Jeff Award winner. Heartbreak Hotel is presented by special arrangement with Concord Theatrical.
