Residents of Moose Mountain Lodge, staff and visitors were treated to a complete concert experience-with one fan even rushing the stage- as Elvis Presley tribute artist Rory Allen made a surprise appearance there on Monday, July 13, courtesy of the Friends of Moose Moose Mountain Lodge.
The concert coincided with the Lodge's monthly birthday celebration, and residents, most staff members and visitors were completely unaware that Elvis would be making an appearance to celebrate with them.
Friends of Moose Mountain Lodge member Carolyn Shirley of Carlyle is credited with the idea of Allen appearing at the Lodge.
“I'm just part of the group,” she says. “But I was brainstorming one night, trying to think of something that everyone might enjoy. I met with Rory a while back and I knew he did shows at nursing homes. I just tried to think of what I would like to see if I were in (the residents') place. There were a lot of smiles today and I'm very happy. He did a really good, awesome show.”
Shirley adds that the concert was made possible by some generous sponsors. “I knew it was a lot of money for us (the Friends of Moose Mountain Lodge),” she says. “Jim and I were willing to contribute, but I asked a few other people what they thought, and they generously donated to this special event. The support of Marilyn and Melvin George, Kathy Nankivell, Integrity Maintenance, Performance Realty, The Pearl and Carlyle Bakery-who donated the cinammon buns- ensured the cost was pretty well covered and the Friends put in the rest.”
Fellow Friends member Myrla Holland of Carlyle says, “This show is just fulfilling the Friends of Moose Mountain Lodge's mission statement, which states that our vision is to enhance the everyday lives of the residents of Moose Mountain Lodge.”
As Allen took the stage, he said, “It's an honour for me to be here. I hope you all relax and have fun, and hopefully you'll make some memories.”
Allen entertained his audience with a mix of rock 'n' roll, ballads and gospel, as well as stories and hunour that drew from his encyclopedic knowledge of all things Elvis, adding: “With a catalogue of over 800 songs that Elvis recorded, there's plenty to choose from, so the show is never the same.”
His energy and sense of humour were evident, as he actively engaged his audience, talking, leading sing-a-longs, good-naturedly teasing, posing for photos, holding hands and even getting and giving a few kisses.
Kathy Nankivell, whose mother, Lodge resident Ruby Morrison, received a kiss, said of Allen: “He always puts a good show. I've seen him numerous times and he really tailors his show to the audience. He did exceptionally well with his song choices today and the way he reached out to his audience.”
Resident Leland Maxie, 37, who was celebrating his birthday said that Allen's show was “Perfect, just perfect.”
Lodge staff member Jan Prosofsky “rushed the stage” and secured a waltz with Allen, to the laughter of the audience.
“It was awesome that he came here to entertain our residents,” she said. “How can you not fall in love with this man? He's a sweetheart for doing that.”
Although Allen didn't bring his 11-piece band with him, the concert experience was enhanced by backing tapes that featured vocals by The Jordanaires and the Imperial Quartet, both of whom performed with the King. The recordings were from Allen's collaborations-both live and recorded-with both groups.
“My nephew Patrick (Andrews) is here with us today,” Allen told the crowd. “He also does the sound for the Saskatchewan Roughriders, so you know the sound will be good.”
Allen was also accompanied by his “lovely wife, Lorie” and their daughter, Madison.
“My wife used to spend a lot of time at Kenosee Lake, so because of that, I really like Kenosee Lake. I've also played a lot of shows at the Bear Claw Casino, so it's good to be back here in our old stomping grounds.”
“And after playing for the people here, the second-best reason to come to Carlyle is for the (Carlyle Bakery) cinammon buns,” added Allen.
The Allens have been named CTV Regina's Citizen(s) of the Year (2011) and have been awarded the Saskatchewan Centennial Medal and most recently, the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal-all in recognition of their ongoing generosity and community service.
“This is actually how I get paid,” Allen told the crowd. “Meeting people like you. There's so much wisdom in this room.”
“God bless you all for coming out.”
“I really appreciate the folks here,” added Allen. “Hopefully, I'll do a different show next year. I'd just love to come back. I like it here; it's cool.”
Friends of Moose Mountain Lodge president Bertha Isleifson said, “I saw so many toe-tapping, smiling people here today. It was a really good show and it was fun for everyone.”
For more information, check out www.roryallen.com
