Theatres & Shows / What's On Ricky Aron and Matt King added to Elvis Celebration 30 June 2017 by Visit Blackpool Matt King who won last year’s event at the Winter Gardens Blackpool, taking the crown of 2016’s Elvis Tribute Artist competition will officially close the 2-day celebration of Elvis at the Winter Gardens Blackpool this weekend. The multi award winning tribute began his career in Tenerife initially winning a contest before earning a contract to work on the island. Since Matt has become world renowned appearing in contests across the globe including Memphis, Tennessee in August 2016 after qualifying in first place at competitions in Penticton, Canada & Europe’s tribute to Elvis at the Winter Gardens Blackpool in 2016. Also added to the line-up is Ricky Aron, 2015 ‘Europe’s Tribute to Elvis’ Champion. Ricky is no stranger to the stage having toured the UK & abroad extensively, even appearing as Cliff Richard in ‘Cliff the Musical’ which premiered at the Opera House Blackpool. His love of Elvis is described as his inspiration to become a performer, describing being an Elvis Tribute Artist the best job in the world. The headliners who’ll be joined on stage by various artists and individuals who take part in the open mic sessions are set to be introduced by Radio Wave’s Scott Gallaher on the Friday and North Piers Joey Blower who’ll act as master of ceremonies on the Saturday. The event will take place in the Empress Ballroom from 7pm on Friday 30 June and Saturday 01 July. An after-show party will take place in the Merry England Bar from 2pm on Sunday 02 July hosted by Joey Blower and feature performance opportunities as part of an open mic session. The event which will be free entry welcomes donations on behalf of the Winter Gardens Trust and the Mayor’s Charity. Michael Williams, Managing Director “with less than 24 hours to go we are pleased to announce the line-up for the 2-day festival featuring 2 world renowned Elvis Tribute Artists, 2 incredible hosts and a fantastic line-up of individuals who’ll take to the stage as part of the open mic sessions.’ “Our thanks must go to every individual and company who over the past 48 hours have made it possible to salvage this event. We can’t wait to welcome the fans and truly celebrate the music of Elvis’ The Elvis Celebration will accompany a weekend already packed with live music taking place in Blackpool Town Centre as the free to attend Jazz and Blues Festival takes place. Those wishing to attend do not need to purchase a ticket, instead arrive at the Empress Ballroom from 7pm on Friday 30 June & Saturday 01 July. Entry is subject to the venue capacity. The Winter Gardens Blackpool would like to put on record its thanks to Matt King Ricky Aron Joey Blower Scott Gallagher and Radio Wave AP Audio All our media partners for keeping everyone up to date The hundreds who’ve offered your support and suggestions For more information visit wintergardensblackpool.co.uk