It’s good to be the king: Tribute artists vie to be top Elvis in St. Charles
Tribute artists from around the country vied to see who would be crowned the king of rock 'n' roll Sunday during the 14th Windy City Elvis Tribute Artist competition Sunday at the Arcada Theatre in St. Charles.
The event, launched in 2012 by longtime Chicago Elvis tribute artist Joe Tirrito, celebrates the music and memory of the “The King.” It’s been held at either the Arcada Theatre or Des Plaines Theatre since 2017.
Nineteen artists, representing the gamut of Elvis eras, took the stage Sunday. Each performed two songs for a crowd of enthusiasts and a panel of judges.
Edith Anderson of Barrington said she remembers seeing Elvis on TV and in movies as a kid.
“I was smitten,” she said with a laugh. “(That) we’re still watching people perform as him all these years later is really a hoot.”
Sunday’s winner took home a $2,000 cash prize and a championship belt. Second and third place winners also took home cash prizes and gift certificates from vendors including Pro Elvis Jumpsuits.
A portion of the event's proceeds will be donated to St. Jude Children's Miracle Network.