Beatles Vs. Elvis Tribute Show Settles An Old Score On Raleigh Stage

Beatles or Elvis? Who was the real King of Rock 'n' Roll? Two of the greatest musical acts of all time face off in a high-octane, adrenaline-pumping musical showdown on August 12 at the A.J. Fletcher Opera Theater courtesy of nationally touring Beatles band Abbey Road and premier Elvis tribute, Scot Bruce.

Where did the idea for this show come from?

"Music fans never had a chance to see the Beatles and Elvis perform on the same marquee," said Nate Bott, who performs as "John Lennon" in the show.

"Now, music aficionados can watch this debate play out on stage."

During the two-hour show, the bands perform three sets each, trading places in quick set changes and ending the night with an all-out encore involving both bands. The band members have their outfits custom-made, since avid fans know exactly what the Beatles and Elvis wore onstage during different time periods in their careers.

There's a lot of good-natured jabbing between the bands as well.

"When it comes to stage presence, there is no comparison," quips Bruce. "The Beatles couldn't even dance."

"Lennon and McCartney were the best songwriting duo of all time," said Chris Overall, who plays "Paul McCartney" in the show."Elvis had other people write his songs."

"John Lennon said that If there were no Elvis, there would be no Beatles. Rock 'n' Roll started with Elvis...and we certainly know what happened when the Beatles got a hold of it!" said Bruce.

How can we compare the two biggest acts in the history of the music business?

"You put the two best tribute bands to the originals on stage and let the audience decide," said show producer Tom Maher, who has managed internationally touring acts such as Leon Russell, Zakk Wylde, Blind Melon and Anthrax for 35 years.

The Raleigh show is part of a 125 city tour of the U.S., Canada and Australia.

Beatles vs. Elvis - A Musical Showdown performs on August 12 at 7:30 pm at the Fletcher Opera Theater. Tickets are $35-$65 and may be purchased online at www.dukeenergycenterraleigh.com, by phone at 800. 745. 3000, and at the Duke Energy Center Box Office. The Fletcher Opera Theater is located at 2 E South St, Raleigh, NC 27601. The show is appropriate for all ages. Tickets go on sale on June 18.