'An Evening With Matt Cordell' at Alhambra Shrine - July 20

photo Elvis tribute artist Matt Cordell performs "Burning Love" at a previous show. Cordell says his favorite Presley song is "My Way."

IF YOU GOWhat: "An Evening With Matt Cordell"When: 6 p.m. Saturday, July 20; doors open at 5 p.m.Where: Alhambra Shrine Temple, 1000 Alhambra DriveAdmission: $15-$20Phone: 423-892-0223Website: www.alhambrashrine.com, www.mattcordell.net

Elvis Presley fans can relive their cherished memories of the entertainer on Saturday, July 20, during "An Evening With Matt Cordell."

The Southeast Tennessee native recently won a preliminary contest in Atlantic City and will compete with 23 other Elvis tribute artists in August in Memphis in the seventh annual Ultimate Elvis competition, sanctioned by Elvis Presley Enterprises.

Cordell competed in the Elvis Extravaganza competition in 2003 in Las Vegas and was ranked No. 9 in America without being a member of an Elvis association. He won first place in the national Tribute to the King competition in St. Louis, Mo., in 2004 and the Reflections of the King competition in Pigeon Forge, Tenn., in 2007.

The entertainer performs regularly at theaters in Pigeon Forge, in addition to travel dates, and has appeared with former Presley collaborators The Jordanaires (in Las Vegas), The Stamps Quartet and guitarist Charlie Hodge.

Cordell has portrayed the King of Rock 'n' Roll for more than 15 years. He's a natural in the role, according to his bio. "Without a wig or makeup, he looks a lot like Elvis, he moves like Elvis and, most important, he sings like Elvis, sideburns and all."

Cordell says he strives for authenticity with costumes and music. His repertoire includes some 500 songs, reflecting more than three decades' worth of chart-toppers, gospel standards and movie hits.

Reserved seating for the show is $20 for the two front rows, $15 for other seats. Tickets may be purchased by phone with a credit card or in person during business hours, 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday. Tickets will be available at the door on a first-come, first-served basis. Doors open at 5 p.m., an hour before the show. Concessions will be available, and door prizes will be awarded.

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