Elvis Was Here (2008)
Mixed Media

Elvis Was Here is an Elvis themed workshop to be hosted at primary schools throughout the UK. It aims to break the world record for the ‘most Elvis impersonators in one location’ by training children up to the minimum standard of quality that would officially define them as Elvis impersonators. Working with legendary Elvis Tribute Artist Paul Richie, each class-based activity is designed to combine the structure of a ‘year four’ primary school curriculum and the three basic acts of impersonation: Act-a-like, Look-a-like and Sound-a-like. In doing so it addresses and investigates questions concerning the legal definition of impersonation, legacy, identity and authenticity in an alternative context.

The first Elvis Was Here took place at St Saviour's Church of England primary school in Herne Hill, London on June 12th 2008.

9.00am Elvis Assembly & Lecture
Introduction to the Elvis impersonation industry delivered by Elvis tribute artist Paul Richie.

9:30am Elvis Performance
Paul Richie performs tracks from the Elvis back catalogue.

10:00am Elvis Life Drawing Class
Portrait painting of Paul Richie, life drawing class hosted by art teacher Louisa Loizeau.

11:30am Elvis Fashion Class

12:15pm Elvis Lunch
Year 4 were provided with a specially prepared Elvis lunch box, consisting of a peanut butter sandwich, banana, chocolate chip cookie and apple juice.

1:00pm Elvis Dance Class
Elvis dance class with choreographer Annie Lok.

1:45pm Elvis Music Class
Learn to sing the classic Elvis song ‘Hound Dog’ with music teacher Alison Honeysett, accompanied by Paul Richie.

3:00pm Elvis Will Leave The Building
Paul Richie performs a final goodbye song before leaving the building.

Photographs by Thierry Bal