Return of The King

Elvis made a dramatic return to the stage this week… thanks to a musical director intent on bringing the King back to life in time for Christmas.

Hundreds of rock'n'roll fans squeezed inside Botley Hill Farmhouse, Limpsfield Road, on Sunday for the launch of a new musical, Elvis at Christmas.

Musical man: Warlingham's West End director David Mackay at Botley Hill Farmhouse while 'Elvis' rehearses in the background Photo No: rsmis081109c15 by Ian Stratton
Double act: Below left, Elvis impersonator Mario Kombou rehearses with 'Marilyn Monroe'. Left and above right, the real Elvis Presley

It is the brainchild of Warlingham-based musical director David Mackay, 65, who decided to give family and friends a sneak preview of the show before it begins its theatrical tour.

Mr Mackay, of Beechwood Road, Warlingham, said: "It is just a real thrill to be back working in the theatre. The best thing about theatre is that it is so immediate. You get to see the reaction on people's faces as soon as it happens and it can be so rewarding.

"We are not putting out a tribute show. We aren't just putting someone on stage to sing old songs.

"We tell a story and the dialogue between the characters is integral to the show."

The Sydney-born father of two started his musical career when he was 15.

The former Woldingham resident originally made his name in musicals before going on to produce numerous hit singles for superstars such as Eric Clapton, the Bee Gees and Dusty Springfield.

He later ventured into TV themes, composing the opening music for shows such as Auf Wiedersehen, Pet and As Time Goes By.

The Ivor Novello winner and BAFTA nominee has two children from his marriage to wife Brenda, Brett and Sara, who live in Reigate and Godstone respectively.

Leading man – London performer Mario Kombou – is the only Elvis impersonator in the world to be officially endorsed by the Presley family.

In 2005 he won the Images of the King competition in Memphis, Tennessee, and Elvis's cousin, Donna, described him as "the closest thing to Elvis… since Elvis". John Watkiss, 64, who owns Botley Hill Farmhouse, stood among the crowd in the 200-seater marquee.

He said: "What a treat for everyone who came along.

"The performers were in a different class.

"We try to keep a really high standard here, and it's great for our local customers to see such calibre.

"I'm not an Elvis fan really – more a Sinatra man myself – but even I thought it was a fantastic show."