The Collingwood Elvis Festival is back, baby! After a 25-year hiatus, the iconic event is making a comeback, thanks to the efforts of Steve Michaels and Mark Erwin. These two tribute artists, who first performed at the festival in 1996, are bringing back the magic of Elvis Presley in a big way. With the official sanction of Elvis Presley Enterprises, the event is set to rock Collingwood from July 24 to 26. But what makes this story even more fascinating is the personal journey of Michaels and Erwin, and the impact the festival has had on their lives.
Michaels, a self-proclaimed '50s Elvis, has been performing as a tribute artist for over 30 years. His love for Elvis began when he grew up listening to his family's favorite songs. It all started with a chance encounter at a Jack Astor's restaurant, where he was hummed along to Elvis tunes while waiting tables. This led to a breakthrough moment when his manager suggested he perform as Elvis, and the rest is history. Michaels' reputation for being the '50s Elvis has taken him on a journey, including winning the Images of Elvis World Competition in Memphis in 2001. However, he's learned that the competition aspect isn't his forte, and he prefers to focus on Presley's younger years.
Erwin, on the other hand, has a deep respect for the Collingwood Elvis Festival's legacy. He believes it's too viable to let it fade away, and over the years, he and Michaels couldn't let it go. The festival's end in 2019, after 25 years, left a void that these two artists were determined to fill. The pandemic delayed their plans, but in 2023, they finally took action, and the rest is history.
This year's event is a small step towards the festival's full-scale revival in 2027, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of Presley's death. Michaels and Erwin are financing the event themselves, starting small but with big dreams. The lineup includes Michaels, alongside tribute artists Mat Shank, Jimmy Holmes, and Bruno Nesci. The schedule is packed with performances, including a Midnight in Vegas tribute by Michaels, which he also performed at the festival in 2010.
What makes this story truly fascinating is the personal connection it has for Michaels and Erwin. For Michaels, the festival is a full-circle moment, a chance to pay homage to his last performance. It's a testament to the power of the festival's impact on his life, and the opportunities it has provided. Erwin, on the other hand, sees this as a chance to bring back the festival's roots, starting small but with a vision for the future.
The Collingwood Elvis Festival's return is a reminder of the enduring appeal of Elvis Presley and the power of community events. It's a story of perseverance, passion, and the magic that can be created when people come together to celebrate a shared love. So, if you're in Collingwood, mark your calendars for July 24-26, and get ready to rock and roll all night long!
