POP/ROCK - June 10, 1988

Critics reviewing the opening Tuesday night at the Shubert Theatre in New Haven, Conn., of “Elvis: An American Musical” had mixed feelings about the show, a $3-million multimedia extravaganza in the tradition of “Beatlemania.” Remarked New Haven Register drama critic Markland Taylor: “If the producers want it to be an emotionally involving Broadway show, they’re on the wrong tack. . . . If they’re content with a Las Vegas rock revue, they’re on their way.” Added Hartford Courant pop music critic Frank Rizzo: “As the (tabloids) say, Elvis may be alive. But he’s sure not in New Haven.” After a brief run in New Haven, the production makes its official “world premiere” July 1 at the Las Vegas Hilton.