Reporter Ben Summer had never quite got the Elvis thing and thought ‘Always On My Mind’ was a Pet Shop Boys original. But a trip to Porthcawl in 2022 changed all that. The 2024 Elvis Festival takes place from September 27-29.
“I’m not a massive Elvis fan,” admitted Ben Summer. While he recognised the significance of Elvis’s music for many, the phenomenon surrounding ‘The King’ – the hair, the iconic outfits, and the general aura – had always eluded him. A journey to explore south Wales and the Porthcawl Elvis Festival became an intriguing proposition for Summer, promising a closer glimpse at Welsh life and an education on one of rock and roll’s legendary figures.
His excursion to the festival proved eventful, with surprises ranging from being charmed by a woman in a ship captain’s attire, encountering ‘Suspicious Minds’ for the first time, meeting close to 40 Elvi (the plural of Elvis?), and simply having a blast. From GI Blues regalia to a treasure trove of tunes, the festival was a day of significant enlightenment for Summer. He found the variety of Elvis impersonators astounding, each bringing their unique flair to the event – a testament to Elvis’s ability to connect people.
As he mingled with attendees, Summer heard enchanting tales of how Elvis’s music played pivotal roles in relationships and friendships. The festival was more than just impersonators and music; it was a gathering of people enjoying themselves by the seaside. Stories of lifelong connections formed over Elvis’s music highlighted the festival’s warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Engaging with Elvis fans and impersonators, Summer learned about their deep admiration for Elvis, from attending the festival annually to splurging on elaborate Elvis costumes. Despite not becoming an ardent Elvis fan himself, Summer left the festival with a newfound appreciation for the community of Elvis enthusiasts who know how to have fun and celebrate their shared love for ‘The King’.
The Porthcawl Elvis Festival served as a reminder that music can bring people together, transcending differences and creating lasting memories. For Summer, the festival was a unique experience that opened his eyes to the passion and joy that Elvis’s music continues to evoke.