Rob Kemp's award-winning, sing-along, zombie comedy made headlines at last year's Edinburgh Fringe Festival, earning the comedian a Best Newcomer nomination.
Now, the Englishman is bringing his audio/visual mash-up performance to the Iveagh Gardens on Saturday, 28th at 7:00pm in The Punchline, for the Vodafone Comedy Festival.
So, what is The Elvis Dead all about? We spoke with the creator to find out how he reimagined the story of cult classic Evil Dead 2 through the songs of the legendary Elvis Presley.
The Elvis Dead - an amazing pop culture crossover - how did it come about and why do you think it works?
Why thank you! The idea arose from a conversation I had with a couple of comedians after first watching Bubba Ho-Tep (a Don Coscarelli horror comedy, starring Evil Dead star Bruce Campbell as an elderly Elvis in a nursing home, battling a soul-stealing mummy) when one of them remarked that I bore a resemblance to Bruce Campbell. The connection was made and whilst we had a good long laugh at the idea, something felt so right I decided to get serious about it.
It's not really for me to say exactly why it works, but I'd like to think that it may be because the show is a sincere love letter to both Evil Dead 2 and Elvis. Or maybe because the movie is such a wild ride (by design) and one of the cultiest cult movies, with a real fervent fanbase, whilst Elvis is, well, Elvis.
Everyone knows Elvis. His massive back-catalogue of music was something of a benefit in the writing too, meaning that if a song didn't fit as well as I'd like, there was a deep well of culturally familiar music to choose from.
For those who have never seen the show, what can they expect? Musical, theatrical, dramatic, comedic - all of the above?
I'd say all of the above, presented with a b-movie aesthetic. In it's simplest terms, the show is an audio-visual tribute concert to both the man and the film, though I am assured you don't really need a knowledge or even an appreciation of either to enjoy it. If they come ready for a party, I can oblige.
Best review on the show so far?
A few people have told me that they now sing my words to Elvis songs, which is crazy! I love it when people say 'this show was written for me!', as that feels like real vindication that I am not just a solitary loon.
You've committed a lot to this show, even dealing with injuries along the way - I hear you went to American wrestler Colt Cabana to learn how to fall - what have you learned from it so far?
I've learned that audiences see and appreciate a commitment to the performance. I've learned that I'm not indestructible (I had a sneaking suspicion, to be honest).
I've learned how purple a hip can get, and not to land with the full weight of your body on your hand (Colt was brilliant by the way, we didn't have long to chat, and I'm almost certainly doing what he told me incorrectly - when I remember to - but I really appreciated his willingness to help. I also remember the look of terror on this massive wrestler's face as my hand dragged me towards him! Ha!).
I've learned why some acts write shows that are just them and a microphone. Most profoundly, I've found truth in the old adage of a job you love not feeling like work.
We can't wait to see you on the stage at Vodafone but is there a long-term plan for Elvis Dead? Bigger venues, a tour? What's the dream?
I really hope so. As long as there's enthusiasm for the show (and my body holds up), I'll keep doing it. I think the show will still work in bigger venues, as long as the crowd is up for it, that is.
I'm happy with a slow word of mouth creep into the world because it feels appropriate to the 'video nasty' community, "have you seen this thing? You have to see this thing!!!".
A big Vegas show is something of a goal, and maybe Sing-along-a-Elvis-Dead!
Are you still working as an exams officer or have you gone full time with performing? Do you think you want a career in stand up or are musicals your calling now?
I hung up my exam regulations book a few months ago. It wasn't a decision I took lightly, but maintaining the day job was preventing me from taking up some opportunities.
I'd like to build a career in performance, leaning towards comedy, and stand-up/live comedy is my first love. That said, I'd be up for acting.
Who are you looking forward to seeing at the festival?
I don't know entirely who is on! Tommy Tiernan is high on the 'see live' list, and I understand I am on a bill with Dreamgun, who are performing Back to the Future live, which as an 80's kid sounds right up my street.
Whether you're a fan of musicals, Graceland or comedians that vaguely resemble Bruce Campbell - The Elvis Dead is not a show to be missed. Tickets for Vodafone Comedy Festival are on sale now.
