365 Things to Do in Memphis #221: The Last Chance Elvis Tribute Artist Contest
365 Things to Do in Memphis #221: The Last Chance Elvis Tribute Artist Contest
Elvis Week is upon us, and chances are, if you live in Memphis, you're probably not super excited about it. But you should be, because during Elvis Week, there's one event that kind of rules all of the other events.
Assignment #221 in the 365 Thing to Do in Memphis is to watch Elvii from all over the world compete for tribute artist glory in the the Last Chance Elvis Tribute Artist Contest.
If an Elvis Tribute Artist can't win entry into the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest at one of the preliminaries that are held throughout the year, they can compete in the Last Chance ETA Contest, where the winner gets an invitation to the big one.
Because anyone with a little bit of cash and a dream can enter, the skill and commitment level of each Elvis can vary wildly. I've been a judge for the contest in the past, and I love that it's a total Elvis grab bag. You never know what you're going to get. Some of the Elvii are insanely talented, while others are not quite ready for prime time.
What's most amazing about the Last Chance contest is the crazy enthusiam. People - lots of people - come to watch. Women sit in the front row and wave scarves and freak out like it's the Ed Sullivan Show all over again. The performers commit so fully to their acts that everyone else gets caught up in it in a really genuine, fun way.
The Last Chance ETA Contest lasts three nights. Round one is on Friday, Aug. 10, Round two is on Sunday Aug. 12, and the finals are on Monday, August 13. Admission to the first two rounds is $5 and tickets to the final round are $10.
Go there:
Last Chance Elvis Tribute Artist Contest
Aug. 10, 12 and 13
Hard Rock Cafe
All Ages
(901) 529-0007
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