But what is the motivation from the fans perspective? Why the fans interest? - why the longevity?
Why are so many fans still captivated by watching Elvis impersonators? Why do people flock to see impersonators of varying professionalism?
Arguably, the answer lies in a deep-seated psychological need on the part of many fans to re-live the magic, emotional security and joy that Elvis brings them. Symbolically (as in Henderson's Elvis/Dionysus comparison) the impersonator experience for fans mirrors the feelings produced listening to or watching Elvis at home, but extends these to the arena of the "live performance".
The sexual athleticism, the sultry good looks, the reassuring musical sound, these all integrate to create the "needed" experience. Watching an impersonator allows many fans to escape the prosaic or mundane parts of their life, albeit for only a few hours, and escape to the realms of their fantasy world where Elvis reassures and enriches their psyche.
The impersonator therefore serves as a very important (and good enough) psychological tool or link between the fan and Elvis - as John Paget perceptively titled his documentary, they're….'Almost Elvis'.
END OF SERIES
This series of articles are reprinted with the kind permission of www.elvisinfonet.com
Thanks again Nigel!!
Andy Stankovich
Elvis The Voice
www.ElvisTheVoice.com
One of the world's great Elvis Presley tribute artists
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