Introduction
I wish to thank today's contributing writer, Lori-Anne Crewe, for her write-up and photos in the Gospel Photo Feature. Besides her very visible role as SB photographer, Lori-Anne is also our behind the scenes technical adviser and artistic director. Whenever there is a tech issue, I can count on Lori-Anne to make things right. The eye-catching contest poster and the memorable Trivia Tuesday design are examples of Lori-Anne's computer wizardry. She was also instrumental in helping me with the initial set-up of SB Magazine, and continues to teach and assist me with computer tasks as they arise. As a professional photographer, Lori-Anne captures the emotion and story behind behind the images that are posted on SIDEBURNS.
Article
As lead photographer for SIDEBURNS Magazine, I’m privileged to have access to some of the biggest and brightest talents in the ETA world. One of my favourite events to photograph is the Niagara Falls Elvis Festival (NFEF), held annually at the Greg Frewin Theatre in the heart of Niagara Falls, Canada. Only in its third year, the festival, sanctioned by Elvis Presley Enterprises, Inc. | Graceland is host to the official preliminary round for the 2019 Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest held in Memphis, where Elvis tribute artists from around the world compete for the title of Grand Champion. If you are an Elvis fan, or even just a fan of live entertainment, the Niagara Falls Elvis Festival is not to be missed.
In addition to the contest, festival attendees are treated to several performances by award-winning artists and musicians throughout the 3-day event. From a photographer’s point of view, these performances are a joy to capture. There is no denying the excitement in the air as world-class performers such as Dean Z, Diogo Light or Jay Dupuis take the stage. I often find myself enjoying the performances so much that I forget to take the photos!
From the rockabilly of the ‘50s to the soulful funk of the ‘70s, Elvis’s music has always captivated me; however, the genre that I enjoy the most is his gospel. When he sings these classics there is something in Elvis’s voice that resonates with me. It is no surprise that, for me, the highlight of the 2019 Niagara Falls Elvis Festival was Gospel Hour, hosted by talented artists, Riley Jenkins, Diogo Light and Cote Deonath. Their heartfelt performances of “How Great Thou Art” and “Amazing Grace” were soul lifting. As a special treat for the audience, the Niagara Men’s Chorus joined the performers on stage for a few gospels and then a solo performance during half-time. I am pleased to provide you with a few photos from the 2019 Niagara Falls Elvis Festival Gospel Hour. Enjoy!
Lori-Anne Crewe, Lead Photographer
Editor’s Notes
The opening photo of Riley Jenkins is one my favourites that Lori-Anne took during the divine Sunday morning at the NFEF. Having seen Diogo Light and Cote Deonath for two consecutive years at the NFEF, and knowing their talent for powerful vocals, I anticipated a wonderful gospel hour. I saw Riley at last year’s NFEF, and I know that a year in the life of a teen can mean big changes. Looking very mature in his "If I Can Dream" white suit, and with his hair blackened, the sixteen year old ETA sang with a passion that far exceeded his years. I was at the very back of the theatre taking notes, and I had to put down my pen and watch and listen to his spellbinding solos. His voice was so unexpectedly powerful, it was difficult without looking at the stage to distinguish which of the three brilliantly talented ETAs was singing. It was a serenely beautiful way to spend Sunday morning, listening to the magnificent voices of Diogo, Cote, and Riley singing Elvis’s much loved gospel songs.
Thank you for your wonderful photos in today’s post, Lori-Anne. We all look forward to seeing more of your photos from the Niagara Falls Elvis Festival in upcoming posts. C.M.
