Increasing Professionalism & The Impersonator Creed: The Professional Elvis Impersonators Association (PEIA) introduced its charter in 1999. It comprises: What will the PEIA do for me? A set of guiding principles PEIA creed Code of Ethics PEIA Affiliations PEIA structure Articles of Membership Officers/Board Members Members of the PEIA receive a Membership Certificate and discounts on background music, travel and accommodation.
They also receive information about national conventions, showcases and banquets where their services may be required. The PEIA supports various charities including the Special Olympics and Muscular Dystrophy Society.
An overriding objective of the PEIA is its guiding principles - to recognise the professional status of its entertainers and to promote fellowship. An important aspect of the Elvis impersonator world is its creed. If you want to be taken seriously (particularly by your fellow impersonators) as an 'Elvis' artist there are various things you need to satisfy. Concepts of leadership, presenting an appropriate image in all aspects of life, performing in a professional manner and "continuing the legacy of Elvis Presley" are all stressed.
The PEIA Code of Ethics builds on the creed by introducing socio-cultural concepts - members are not to use or support the use of illegal drugs, they will strive for achievement and practice integrity, respect the property of others, meet their financial obligations in a timely manner, challenge other PEIA members to abide by these ethical expectations and confront those who violate them.
So who is the PEIA? According to its structure (see www.elvisentertainers.com) its "supreme ruling body" is a Board of Directors consisting of Elvis impersonators, Agents, Producers and other professionals in the field. Board members are listed as Johnny Thompson (President/Founder) and Eugene Nash (Vice-President). The charter provides also for a Secretary and Treasurer but no names are listed against these roles.
With only two Board members listed on its web site I wondered how the PEIA could carry out its review, disciplinary and judicial responsibilities as formal letters require the signature of "no less than three Board members".
This series of articles are reprinted with the kind permission of www.elvisinfonet.com
Andy Stankovich
Elvis The Voice
www.ElvisTheVoice.com
One of the world's great Elvis Presley tribute artists
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