By Rama Gaind.
Nicknamed the ‘King of Rock ‘n’ Roll,’ Elvis Presley left an indelible mark on popular culture that endures to this day.
Singer, actor and ‘King of Rock ‘n’ Roll’ – Elvis Presley – has left an indelible mark on popular culture that has endured to this day. He had that unique star quality that made him one of the most influential artists in his era of music.
He sure had the moves – from his swivelling hips to his rubbery legs – which made him a global phenomenon. In 1956, he had this to say when talking about his way of moving on stage: “Some people tap their feet, some people snap their fingers, and some people sway back and forth. I just sorta do ’em all together, I guess.”
Now you have the chance to sneak a peek into the life of the legendary musician and cultural icon … as Presley will be coming to Australia for the first time … in an exhibition next month.
Whether you like to Shake, Rattle and Roll or just get All Shook Up, it’s all systems go to Bendigo as the central Victorian region gears up for the much-anticipated Elvis: Direct from Graceland exhibition.
The display can be viewed at the historic Bendigo Art Gallery from 19 March 2022 to 17 July 2022.
Aimed at showcasing the profound and lasting influence Elvis has on music, design, art and pop culture, it will include more than 300 exclusive items and artefacts straight from Graceland in Memphis featuring the King’s famous jumpsuits, ultra-cool outfits, vintage memorabilia and treasured personal items.
On offer are some amazing deals. When you book your Elvis: Direct from Graceland exhibition stays, don’t forget to make plans to venture further than Bendigo’s arts and cultural precinct. The time is Now or Never – to book online.
Accommodation packages
Elvis: Direct from Graceland exhibition will open at the historic Bendigo Art Gallery from 19 March 2022 to 17 July 2022. It promises to be one of the biggest exhibitions held at the gallery.
Bendigo Regional Tourism has put together a series of early bird Elvis exhibition accommodation packages at many of their Heartbreak Hotels – so visitors won’t miss out or be Crying in the Chapel. Overnight packages start from only $218 per couple per night and include two Elvis: Direct from Graceland tickets.
So, you won’t have to ask Are You Lonesome Tonight – here are some package inclusions:
- Park your Blue Suede Shoes at the Blue House Bendigo from $400 for hire of the entire cottage. Perfect for two to four guests, featuring two luxury bathrooms and queen-sized beds – plus, of course, two complimentary tickets to the exhibition.
- Can’t Help Falling in Love with the package at Barclay on View from $218 per night, per couple, includes two tickets to the exhibition, bottle of wine and breakfast.
- You’ll be far from heartbroken with Balgownie Estate Bendigo’s Heartbreak Hotel Starting from $295 per night in Bell Tent Glamping accommodation, this rockin’ package includes overnight accommodation for two, champagne breakfast and two tickets to the Elvis: Direct from Graceland exhibition. This exclusive package is only redeemable from Monday to Thursday throughout April and May 2022.
As well, the team at Bendigo Art Gallery has put together special Elvis: Direct from Graceland gift vouchers to purchase online. So, Don’t Be Cruel – why not spoil that special someone with this ideal gift!
Golden prospects
Soak up the heritage and culture while in the region, making the most of some golden opportunities during your visit. Plan your adventure not only to Bendigo, but also the surrounds to include Heathcote, Elmore, Axedale, Eaglehawk and more.
Elvis Presley is regarded as one of the most significant cultural icons of the 20th century.
Founded in 1887, the Bendigo Art Gallery is one of Australia’s oldest and largest regional art galleries. Visit heritage halls, banks and factories re-invented as restaurants and wine bars. Among the authentic attractions is Australia’s oldest working pottery which is still in full production at Epsom. Central Deborah Gold Mine’s crushing plant was once heard loud and clear across the goldfields. Today the mine welcomes visitors daily for underground tours.
Go on a variety of tours from rambling and bespoke wine to grape escape. Join the team at Twisted History for a night of spine-tingling stories of Bendigo’s haunted past as you walk through the streets and lanes hearing about unexplained paranormal activity and learn of regular ghostly sightings.
There will be another opportunity to take a trip down memory lane when Oscar-winning Baz Luhrmann’s Elvis biopic opens in cinemas in June.
Whether Elvis is Always On My Mind or not, after this visit to Bendigo, you will be among the many who will be singing: I’ll Remember You!
DETAILS BOX
Bendigo Art Gallery, Victoria
Elvis: Direct from Graceland exhibition
19 March 2022 to 17 July 2022
Accommodation, exhibition ticket prices and gift vouchers:
www.bendigoregion.com.au/explore-bendigo/elvis-direct-from-graceland-accommodation-packages
www.bendigoregion.com.au/bendigo-art-gallery/elvis-direct-from-graceland-gift-vouchers
