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Time Out
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time Out
What does an Elvis superfan make of the King's new London immersive experience?
It's a 25C evening in July, and I'm standing outside an exhibition centre in a black leather suit. These are the sort of things I do for the love of Elvis Presley. And I'm not alone. Almost 50 years after his death, the King of Rock 'n' Roll continues to inspire an intense devotion that borders on the religious. This is the bet that the creators of Elvis Evolution, the newest immersive live experience to arrive at the ExCeL Waterfront, are banking on. No, this isn't a bloated sequel to Baz Luhrmann's 2022 biopic, or yet another expensive showcase for his bejewelled Las Vegas suits. According to the show's website it's a 'first of its kind' 110-minute experience that combines cutting-edge VR and AI technology with live music and theatre, allowing superfans like myself to 'relive The King's most iconic moments'. If that description has you scratching your head, you're not alone – I have next to no idea what I'm about to see during this exclusive sneak peek at the experience. The King Lives On So what exactly is Elvis Evolution? Am I about to see my greatest idol come back from the dead thanks to the power of VR and AI? And are high-tech homages like this one the future of live entertainment or the devil in disguise? The show begins in a neon-drenched 1950s diner that evokes a nostalgic sense of Americana. This is the first in a trio of themed bars that each group of up to 160 Elvis fans passes through on their walkthrough. It's the kind of mom and pop joint where you might imagine the black-quiffed idol chowing down on peanut butter, banana, and bacon sandwiches between recording sessions on GI Blues. The retro decor is good campy fun, and the attention to detail is likely to please even the most discerning Presley fan (the diner was based on Bob's Big Boys, a celebrated soda shop opposite the NBC studios where his '68 Comeback Special was recorded). The menu also leans into the world building: there are Memphis Muffins, Nashville Nachos, Moonlight Mules, and Pepsi Floats. When my Hounddog arrives, it's satisfyingly plump, juicy, and indulgent (gas station glizzies, these are not). After inhaling the posh weenie, an announcement comes over the tannoy – signalling in shrill southern Californian tones that my group is moving onto the next location. This is where the immersive theatre aspect of the show really begins. As fast as a stolen Cadillac, an all singing, all dancing actor, dressed as a 60s television executive, whisks us through some double doors and into the offices of NBC Studios (another impressive set that evokes New Hollywood through space age televisions, avocado green carpets, and far out furnishings). Here, we're given a briefing that doubles as a prologue, setting the scene for where we are in the Elvis story. Spoiler alert: it's 1968, and the hip-thrusting heartthrob, now a husky 33-year-old man, is preparing to take to the stage for the first time in seven years, following a long stretch of lousy Hollywood flicks and declining album sales. This one-off televised show (immortalised in rock 'n' roll lore as the '68 Comeback Special) is his last shot to reclaim his star and recapture the excitement of his '50s heyday. Fail and he'll enter the dustbins of pop culture history alongside all the tableware sets, bobbleheads, and novelty mugs bearing his likeness. If you saw the 2023 Netflix documentary, Return of the King: The Fall and Rise of Elvis Presley, you'll be very familiar with this episode. This is not the tragic story of the womanising white-suited crooner who died on the can. Instead, it recasts good old EP as the hero of his own story – during the moment he triumphantly rediscovered his voice. More spoilers: Elvis Evolution puts a new spin on the saga, by telling it from the perspective of Sam Bell, a childhood friend of the star, who grew up with him in Tupelo, Mississippi. With this unlikely figure as our narrator and guide, we're lead onto a time travelling mystery train that transports us back to their bible belt upbringing. AI Elvis Has Left The Building Much has been made of Elvis Evolution 's use of 'groundbreaking multimedia technology', allowing audiences to 'experience Elvis like never before'. According to the show's press run, this includes (but is not limited to) holographic projections, soundscapes, augmented reality, artificial intelligence, and sensory immersion. This is the kind of language that OpenAI CEO Sam Altman might use on his latest fundraising drive. While these impressive buzzwords might be a good way of justifying the price of the £75 standard ticket – the high-tech touches I do notice, like AI-rendered backdrops and environmental scents, do little to enhance the viewing experience (giving these lofty claims a touch of the Colonel Tom Parkers). Luckily, Elvis Evolution has enough going for it without the need to bask in the reflected glory of high-tech spectaculars like ABBA: Voyage. In fact, the most important thing for audiences to know about Elvis Evolution is that it is not ABBA Voyage, and audiences expecting a fully rendered virtual concert, featuring a wiggling hologram of The King in his white-suited pomp, will be left all shook up. Instead, the format of this experience has more in common with something like Secret Cinema, and the imaginative physical environments, solid acting, and costumes are more impressive than the much-hyped use of VR and AI. When the show's main event – the recreation of the '68 Comeback Special – does eventually take place (by way of a visit to the Blue Hawaii tiki bar and a tour through The King's dressing room), it's a medley of Elvis hits, brought to life by live musicians, and remastered footage from the original performance, projected onto giant screens. Still, the absence of the great man himself doesn't deter fans from dancing in the aisles and joining the cast for a singalong of Blue Suede Shoes and other favourites (even this dispassionate reporter couldn't resist wiggling his be-leathered leg to Jailhouse Rock). Elvis Evolution is a welcome entry into the Presley Universe that breathes new life into his rags-to-riches story in a way that will entertain younger audiences and delight older fans. But for all its fancy tech trimmings, the most compelling part of the show is the original footage of songs like If I Can Dream. There's a valuable lesson here. While advanced technologies may power virtual concerts and immersive musical experiences like this one, they are not the reason that audiences attend. As Elvis learned during his '68 comeback special – sometimes, it's best to let the music do the talking.
Daily Record
15-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Lewis Capaldi spotted in Celtic top as he arrives for The Tonight Show appearance in New York
The Scots singing sensation summed up his Glastonbury performance to host Jimmy Fallon in three words. Lewis Capaldi was spotted wearing a Celtic top while arriving for his appearance on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon in New York - where he summed up his Glastonbury performance in three very revealing words. The Scots singing sensation is Stateside to promote his new single 'Survive' which raced to the top of the charts after a two year hiatus from the music scene. The song garnered over four million streams in its debut week. The Glaswegian stepped back from the limelight after a panic attack triggered by his Tourettes Syndrome at Glastonbury's Pyramid Stage in 2023 forced him to prioritise his wellbeing. But arriving to NBC Studios in Midtown Manhattan on Monday, July 14, Capaldi looked the pictured of health as he donned his beloved side's jersey paired with black Nike shorts and Adidas trainers. The hitmaker looked relaxed as he made his way into the building lobby before going on to perform his latest tune to millions of US viewers. Despite joking the single was "currently underperforming in America," the star opened up about happy times - his secret return to Glastonbury. Firstly reflecting on his meltdown on stage in 2023, Lewis said: "The first time did not go well. I had what the children would refer to as a bit of a menty B. A bit of a mental breakdown on stage. Nothing too serious. "I have Tourettes so I used to tic quite a lot and I still do but I used to do this thing with my shoulder and it became really uncontrollable and I had a panic attack on stage at Glastonbury and I couldn't finish the song. "It happened a couple of times at shows and stuff but I think because this one was so publicised and had so many eyes on it, it really made me think I need to go and get this sorted, I can't keep doing this to myself." However, his return to the Pyramid Stage on June 27 saw Capaldi back with a bang. Speaking about how he felt in the run up to it, Lewis said: "It was terrifying. In the lead up to it I was like this is horrific, I've made a terrible decision and then we did it and it was really beautiful and lovely. "It went exactly as I hoped and it was probably the best day of my life - until I assume when I have a child I'll be like maybe, Glastonbury was still better." Last week, Lewis announced a UK tour last week which sold out in just minutes. The Someone You Loved chanter will play four dates in Scotland this coming September, with two nights at Aberdeen's P&J Live on September 10 and 11, and two nights at Glasgow's OVO Hydro on September 13 and 14. Lewis told the audience on The Tonight show: "You can try and get tickets but they're sold out baby so fat chance." Americans couldn't get enough of the talent's return to the small screen on the other side of the Atlantic. Taking to the YouTube comments, one music fan wrote: "Such a beautiful soul…he gives us all he has and never disappoints! I wish Jimmy had asked him where else he can be seen on TV in USA! I just want him to stay healthy and not overworked! I love his charming accent!!!!" Another scribed: "Lewis is an amazing person. I hoped he is very loved in his personal life." A third penned: "Authentically Scottish, no BS. Love him," while a fourth added: "I appreciate Jimmy Fallon having Lewis Capaldi on his show. It's great to hear how Lewis has been doing. Fantastic to hear he had a triumphant return at Glastonbury." Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'.
Scottish Sun
15-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Celtic-daft Lewis Capaldi spotted wearing the Hoops in New York as he arrives for The Tonight Show appearance
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) LEWIS Capaldi has been spotted on the streets of New York City following his big comeback. The Someone You Loved singer, 28, was in the Big Apple ahead of his appearance on The Tonight Show. Sign up for the Celtic newsletter Sign up 4 Lewis Capaldi appeared on The Tonight Show in New York City Credit: Getty 4 The singer-songwriter talked to chat show king Jimmy Fallon Credit: Getty 4 Lewis belted out his hit new song Survive Credit: Getty The star was seen walking into NBC Studios in Manhattan yesterday evening. The Celtic-daft singer-songwriter was dressed in a replica Hoops top, black Nike shorts, and Adidas trainers. The hitmaker looked relaxed as he made his way into the building lobby. Later, he chatted with the host Jimmy Fallon and performed his new single, Survive, onstage. During his appearance on the popular network show, Lewis joked that country music legend Dolly Parton couldn't understand a word he was saying when they recently crossed paths in Nashville, Tennessee. But he revealed that the awkward moment was still "better than meeting the Queen". Lewis told the host: "I did a little show In Nashville last week and I got to meet Dolly. 'It was great, she was lovely. She really struggled to understand what I was saying as most people in America do. 'But she was very polite and it was a bit of a dream come true. 'That's like meeting the Queen or something. Better than meeting the Queen actually, yeah I said it.' Lewis Capaldi breaks silence on emotional Glastonbury return after taking a break from music It comes after the singer, from Whitburn, West Lothian, described his emotional return to Glastonbury as the best day of his life. Lewis performed a surprise set on the Pyramid stage last month, two years after being unable to finish his set on the same stage when he struggled to manage the symptoms of his Tourette syndrome. Following the 2023 performance, he called off his world tour to address his mental and physical health - a move he described as 'the most difficult decision of my life'. He said: 'It was terrifying. In the lead-up to it I was like 'This is horrific, I made a terrible decision'. 4 Lewis donned a Celtic top as he dropped by NBC Studios for his appearance Credit: Getty 'And then I went out and we did it and it was really beautiful and lovely and it went exactly how I hoped. 'It was probably the best day of my life. 'I assume when I have a child I might be like 'Well maybe Glastonbury was still better'.' Describing his previous experience at Glastonbury in 2023, Lewis said: 'The first time did not go well. I had a mental breakdown on stage. 'I have Tourette's so I used to tic quite a lot. I still do tic but I used to do this thing with my shoulder and it became really uncontrollable and I had a panic attack on stage at Glastonbury and I couldn't finish the song. 'It had happened a couple of times before at shows but because this one was so publicised and there were so many eyes on it it really made me think 'Oh God I really need to go and get myself sorted, I can't really keep doing this to myself'.' The Glasto comeback set also featured a subtle nod to Lewis' beloved footie side as eagle-eyed fans spotted Celtic-themed guitar plectrums on stage. And he's regularly seen proudly donning Celtic shirts, including on one occasion last year where he ventured out for a walk in London in the Celts' black away kit. Lewis' new hit Survive has rocketed to number one in the UK singles chart. But he joked to the US audience that the tune was "underperforming" across the pond and urged them to buy it. Lewis recently announced a partnership with BetterHelp which will see him give fans 734,000 hours of free therapy - 1,000 for each of the days he couldn't perform due to poor mental health. He said therapy was 'a massive part of the reason that I'm able to be a musician again'. Lewis will go on a huge UK tour in the autumn, with dates at Glasgow's OVO Hydro and Aberdeen's P&J Live. Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page
Time of India
21-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Priyanka Chopra teaches Jimmy Fallon how to throw a punch and rocks a leather LBD
Priyanka Chopra recently visited The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, dazzling in a sleek black leather dress and Bvlgari jewelry. She showcased her action skills, teaching Jimmy how to throw a punch, and promoted her upcoming film, Heads of State. In the movie, she plays an MI6 agent tasked with protecting Idris Elba and John Cena from a global conspiracy. Priyanka Chopra is back on the late-night couch and this time, she's bringing serious glam and a few action-star moves. The global icon stopped by The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon to chat all things action, fashion, and her upcoming film Heads of State, co-starring Idris Elba and John Cena (yes, that's a power trio if we've ever seen one). Paps spotted her leaving NBC Studios after wrapping up the taping, and spoiler alert she looked like a total knockout (pun very much intended). The official Tonight Show Instagram gave fans a sneak peek with some behind-the-scenes snaps and a fun clip where Priyanka showed Jimmy how to properly throw a punch. Let's just say, she could totally hold her own in a spy movie… oh wait, she literally is. For her appearance, PC went full-on femme fatale in a sleek black leather bodycon dress that fit her like a glove. The strapless, square neckline brought all the drama, while the back slit added just enough movement to keep things effortlessly chic. If you're on the hunt for the perfect LBD, this one's giving all the inspo. She amped things up with bold black heels and some serious sparkle - courtesy of Bvlgari, of course. We're talking a chunky diamond ring and a shimmering silver choker that could blind you in the best way. Her glam? Totally red carpet ready. She rocked her hair in loose waves with a center part and soft bangs framing her face. The makeup was soft yet striking - glossy berry lips, fluttery lashes, glowing skin, and a touch of rosy blush that tied it all together. Basically, she looked like a million bucks. And let's not forget why she was there. Priyanka's promoting her new action-packed flick Heads of State, where she plays MI6 agent Noel Bisset aka the one responsible for saving the world (no big deal). Her mission? Keep Idris Elba (playing the UK Prime Minister) and John Cena (as the US President) alive while navigating a massive global conspiracy. Sounds intense and we're so here for it. The movie also stars Paddy Considine, Stephen Root, Carla Gugino, Jack Quaid, and Sarah Niles. So yeah, consider it your next must-watch action blockbuster. Between the punch tutorial, the killer dress, and the upcoming spy thriller, Priyanka is serving serious boss energy and we can't wait to see more. One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
Hindustan Times
20-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Hindustan Times
Priyanka Chopra slays in black, dons bright orange wig in fun game with Jimmy Fallon on The Tonight Show. See pics
Actor Priyanka Chopra knows how to turn heads whether on-screen or off. Currently busy promoting her upcoming film Heads of State, the star was recently spotted leaving NBC Studios after taping her appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. Pictures and videos of her waving at paparazzi and obliging fans with selfies and playing a fun game with Jimmy on the show, quickly surfaced online, sending her admirers into a frenzy. (Also Read: Priyanka Chopra holds Malti tight as she enjoys her first roller coaster ride at Disney World: 'We went 4 times') The video shows Priyanka waving and posing for paparazzi outside NBC Studios. Photographers couldn't stop complimenting her, calling her 'gorgeous' and 'beautiful.' She also took time to sign autographs and take selfies with fans gathered outside before heading to her car. Priyanka Chopra's team also shared a series of photos from her appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. The pictures captured the actor in a lively conversation with Jimmy, looking stunning in a black body-hugging dress paired with black heels and a sparkling diamond necklace. The photos also offered a sneak peek of Priyanka and Jimmy donning wigs and playing a fun game on the show, leaving fans eagerly awaiting the episode. A post shared by Team Priyanka Chopra Jonas (@team_pc_) Heads of State is an American action-comedy film directed by Ilya Naishuller. The star-studded cast includes John Cena, Idris Elba, Priyanka Chopra, Jack Quaid, Paddy Considine, Stephen Root, and Carla Gugino. The story follows two world leaders who must put aside their rivalry to prevent a global conspiracy after becoming targets of a dangerous foreign adversary. The action-packed trailer features Priyanka as Noel Bisset, a senior MI6 agent tasked with protecting Clarke and Derringer. While many fans were impressed with Priyanka's fierce action-packed avatar, some felt her role appeared limited. The film is scheduled to release on Amazon Prime Video on July 2. Meanwhile, Priyanka is set to return to Indian cinema with SS Rajamouli's highly anticipated SSMB 29. Touted to be an action-adventure in the vein of Indiana Jones, the film also stars Mahesh Babu and Prithviraj Sukumaran in lead roles. The film is currently in production, and several behind-the-scenes photos from the Hyderabad shoot have surfaced online, sparking major excitement among fans.
