Live Review: Elvis - The Wonder Of You

A fitting instrumental rendition of Elvis Presley’s If I Can Dream kicked off the Australian debut of The Wonder Of You, led by a rousing sax solo and renowned conductor Chong Lim; an early sign that the swelling talent onstage was going to deliver a compelling performance.

A screen was lowered and Presley appeared, donning his iconic white jumpsuit, and Perth Symphony Orchestra kept the ball rolling with Burning Love. Unlike most other performances, the best seats were from the middle of the arena back, with those near the front truly unable to experience the show in all its glory; forced to either stare up at the screen (some even filing it) or down at the 40-piece orchestra and amazing band onstage. The inability to take in both at the same time was a major downfall of the setup.

The evening’s MC Jerry Schilling – who had a close 23-year friendship with the music icon – made the occasional appearance to introduce songs and tell stories of his time with Presley, and while his associate with the King gave the authenticity it needed, that’s really all he added. His anecdotes and crowd banter lacked any real punch or excitement.

Luckily, neither the MC or stage setup could undermine the execution of the songs themselves and charming talents of Presley on the screens as his isolated vocals from a handful of live shows mesmerised the room.

Songs like You Gave Me A Mountain were elevated to new heights while new depths and emotions were added to classics such as You've Lost That Lovin' Feelin'.

Overall, the show is charming and uplifting, and once you lose yourself in the surprisingly immersive concept, it’s a powerful experience.