Review: “This Is Elvis” Brings the King to Life in Nottingham
Elvis never left the building—he just waited for the right moment to come back bigger, bolder, and bedazzled. “This Is Elvis” recently lit up Nottingham’s Royal Concert Hall with a swaggering, heartfelt, and downright thrilling tribute that had the audience grinning, clapping, and occasionally wiping away a tear.
Leading the charge was Ben Portsmouth, whose charm could win over even the most skeptical non-believer. He didn’t just play Elvis; he channeled him. From the moment he strutted on stage in black leather for the ‘68 Comeback Special segment, he owned the spotlight. Vocally, he nailed that velvety Elvis tone—smooth, sultry, and full of controlled power. But it was his charisma that sealed the deal. Between songs, he bantered warmly with the crowd, showing off a playful, self-aware wit that made him instantly likeable. A performer who knows when to wink and when to bring the house down? That’s the sweet spot, and Portsmouth lives there.
The first act focused on the King’s pivotal 1968 TV special—a career-redefining moment after years of formulaic Hollywood flicks. The show cleverly blended performances with narrative beats, letting us see not just the music, but the man. There was tension, soul-searching, and a sense that Elvis was finding his voice all over again. And what a voice—“Trouble,” “Heartbreak Hotel,” and “If I Can Dream” hit hard and true, dripping with emotion and edge.
Then came Act Two: Vegas. And it. Was. Glorious. The lights, the swagger, the rhinestones—it was everything you’d want from a 1970s Elvis show. Portsmouth emerged in full jumpsuit regalia, backed by a killer band and powerhouse backing singers, and the room erupted. “Suspicious Minds” practically tore the roof off. “Burning Love” had everyone bouncing. The band was tight, the arrangements crisp, and the energy infectious.
What made it more than just a nostalgia trip was the pacing and heart. This wasn’t a greatest hits show stitched together with glitter—it was a portrait. The show reminded you not just how talented Elvis was, but how human. You felt the highs of superstardom and the weight of expectation. But through it all, Ben Portsmouth made sure the joy shone through.
By the time the final notes of “Can’t Help Falling in Love” floated through the hall, people were on their feet. Not just because they were told to, but because they had to. Because for one night in Nottingham, Elvis wasn’t just remembered—he was right there, alive and singing.
And honestly? He never sounded better.
