You ’ain't seen or heard anyone like Steve Michaels as Elvis Presley.

He lives and breathes the role in Bill Kenwright’s awesome rock and roller coaster production - This is Elvis.

This is not a tribute act - this is as near as we will get to seeing Elvis doing what he did better than anyone else - performing live on stage.

The most stunning take on the King I have ever seen (and I have seen as many as Bill - this is by far his greatest signing).

It will thrill and delight any Elvis fan.

The original story from Laurie Mansfield is brought to magical life in a musical of exciting, emotional proportions with a faultless performance from Canadian star Steve.

The word ‘star’ really does apply – he shines.

He exudes warmth the moment he arrives on stage and over the next two and half hours he makes the role his own injecting humour and heart-breaking moments as Elvis reveals doubts about his abilities for his legendary comeback concert at the International Hotel in Las Vegas.

Steve gives 100 per cent as in the first act of four scenes we are taken back to NBC studios and Graceland when a re-energised Elvis is tired of making second rate yet lucrative movies involving ‘kissing gals and punching guys.' 

There’s lovely touches of humour throughout and full marks for including The Beatles Get Back inter-weaved with the rocking version of Little Sister.

Steve deserves an adopted Scouser status for this Fab reference.

Elvis wants to go back to his rock and roll, blues and gospel roots but manager Colonel Parker (who we never see) has other plans.

He has booked Las Vegas The rest is history.

Viva, indeed.

The amount of detail and love - yes love - in this production shows in superb backing singers and a faultless band.

And Carole Todd’s choreography is spot on.

Lighting, costumes and stage design reflect the original concerts from fifty years ago.

The second half is astonishing - the concert itself.

The audience is made to feel they are there in that atmospheric 2,000 seater.

Where better than the Empire to re-stage it.

There are 40 songs performed – the ballads and the rockers one after another.

Burning Love and An American Trilogy build to a concert crescendo after Jailhouse Rock and a standing, dancing ovation is told ‘Elvis has left the building.’

Sorry Tina Turner but this Elvis is simply the best.

Five stars!

Electrifying, Evergreen Elvis

On until Saturday, April 28.

For tickets call the Empire box office on 0844 8713 017.