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THE KING COMES HOME - Stunner of the Summer

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THE KING COMES HOME - Stunner of the Summer

Westgate's new Elvis tribute is outrageously entertaining, presenting The King under a vibrant new spotlight.

Another Elvis tribute show? Well, hold on there, friends. This one is truly different, and it's an absolute joy. Daniel Durston stars in THE KING COMES HOME. The new production at Westgate Las Vegas has smashed expectations by taking a unique approach, making it lightning in a bottle. DDM Productions is behind THE KING COMES HOME. They're the Pigeon Forge-based team that brought SOUL OF MOTOWN and COMEDY CABARET to Westgate's entertainment line-up. THE KING COMES HOME was originally set for a limited run, but positive response warranted an immediate year-long extension.

So many things make THE KING COMES HOME worthy of its place among tribute shows. First is the Westgate location, where Elvis once lived, breathed, and performed. His legacy fills the corridors of this iconic resort, as does his ghost (supposedly). Those who purchase the VIP package even get a behind-the-scenes tour, guided by star Daniel Durston. [video width="1280" height="720" mp4="https://vegas411-images.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/10121706/20240710_205912.mp4"][/video] And that's reason number two. Daniel Durston is nothing short of a revelation. His take on the Presley songbook is a true marvel. Somehow this dynamic entertainer transforms into a new human being...not an Elvis impersonator, but a living conduit of the legend. Durston's talents inject the performance with an essence this writer has never witnessed in a tribute show.

Daniel Durston is a Hispanic/Native American Equity Actor-Musician, Singer-Songwriter, Playwright, Director, and award-winning Elvis Tribute Artist. Durston is the creator of the Broadway-bound musical. "1996: A BLINK-182 MUSICAL". - via DanielDurston.com

The word "special" isn't enough to describe the sta's onstage presence. Somehow this young man allows his personality to blend with Presley's. He treats Elvis with reverence, discussing career highlights as a super-fan might. Yet when he begins to sing, he morphs into this other entity. You feel as though you're witnessing something quite significant...almost supernatural.

Screenshot of 1968 Special via YouTube The intimate setting of Westgate's cabaret evokes memories of 1968's "Elvis Comeback Special." Recollections of The King on a stool with his guitar, closely surrounded by the audience, will flood over those fortunate enough to have seen that landmark broadcast.

Unlike ALL SHOOK UP (the long-running Elvis tribute at Alexis Park Resort), THE KING COMES HOME doesn't reap the benefits of live musicians. But a trio of highly accomplished vocalists will have you quickly forgetting about the lack of a band.

Paige Strafella, Joey Calveri, and Sujana Chand (L to R)

Las Vegas celebrity Paige Strafella (Mondays Dark, Reckless In Vegas), Broadway's Joey Calveri, and Sujana Chand (Cirque du Soleil) form the beautiful supporting cast. Each has an enviable resume that elevates the already iconic material. They also receive well-deserved individual moments in the spotlight. [video width="1280" height="720" mp4="https://vegas411-images.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/10121359/20240710_201446.mp41721346148747.mp4"][/video] I do have one minor quibble. Durston wears heavy eye makeup and cheap-looking fake sideburns, injecting campiness into an otherwise reverential experience. I found them to be quite distracting, and they take away from Daniel's wonderfully handsome facial features.

As mentioned above, a backstage tour of the legendary International Theater is available as a post-show add-on. Durston is your guide, taking you through Presley's green room to the spot where he prayed before each performance. Then you'll stroll onto the very stage where Elvis began his record-setting run.

Ned Mills and Sally Olson of CARPENTERS LEGACY flank Daniel Durson in the Elvis green room

[video width="1280" height="720" mp4="https://vegas411-images.s3.eu-north-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/10121647/20240710_212456.mp4"][/video] The same tour (minus Durston) can be experienced at MY BROTHER ELVIS, an evening featuring Presley's stepbrother David Stanley. We told you about that fascinating monthly series here. Diehard aficionados may wish to indulge in both events to get the most immersive portrait of Elvis available. They're only available at Westgate Las Vegas, where the King once resided. Now he's back and larger than life.

THE KING COMES HOME performs Tuesdays at 5:30 pm, Wednesdays and Thursdays at 7:30 pm. Click here for the calendar and to reserve seats. Tickets start at $39.99 (plus taxes and fees). Westgate Las Vegas (formerly the International Hotel) is located at 3000 Paradise Road. Free parking is provided.

SamNovak
Official Verified Account

Sam Novak serves as the Deputy Editor and columnist for Vegas411.com. With a career spanning several years, Sam has established himself as a candid and insightful voice in the city’s entertainment scene. His column, “Vegas Unfiltered,” is renowned for its unvarnished critiques and in-depth analyses of Las Vegas shows, celebrities, restaurants, hotels, and emerging trends. Sam’s commitment to providing readers with genuine insights has solidified his reputation as a trusted authority.