You might not think of Starved Rock as a place to get your rock on, but last weekend the popular national park was jumpin’ to The King’s music during a three-day event that had premiere Elvis Presley impersonator Michael St. Angel belting out one classic after another. Often making the rounds from table to table during Starved Rock Lodge’s Tribute to the Stars Series dinner event, St. Angel had the blissful audience clapping along and often joining in for some of those choruses we know so well. With an abundant repertoire of Elvis classics and even some Bobby Darin, Jay and the Americans and Engelbert Humperdinck sprinkled in, guests enjoyed an action-packed two-set performance that ended in two standing ovations.

This is the third year in a row performing at the Starved Rock Lodge for Michael St. Angel where he entertained for both matinee and evening shows. St. Angel’s first set included many of Elvis’ earlier hits including “Return to Sender”, “It’s Now or Never”, “Viva Las Vegas”, Darin’s “Mack the Knife” and also a very inspired rendition of Jay and the American’s “Cara Mia”. With the look, moves and a voice that puts him among the best of Presley impersonators, St. Angel’s tribute is thoroughly fun to watch and take part in.

Part two of Michael St. Angel’s enactment of The King was more about the Vegas years. Re-entering the room clad in Elvis’ trademark white jumpsuit to the theme of 2001: A Space Odyssey, St. Angel immediately jumped into “See See Rider” and aptly followed up with many greats such as “The Wonder of You”, “Bridge Over Troubled Water” and “Suspicious Minds”. Infusing even more energy into his show as the night went on, fans feasted on St. Angel’s enthusiasm and charisma to which it seemed there was an endless supply. Of course – the crescendo - it wouldn’t be a true Elvis concert without “American Trilogy”, and St. Angel didn’t disappoint, performing the song flawlessly before ending his show with the same song Elvis often ended his concerts, “Can’t Help Falling in Love”.

Michael St. Angel, located in the Chicagoland area, plays roughly fifty to sixty shows per year. Depending on the gig or request, St. Angel can perform with or without a full band and is available for corporate events, private parties, weddings and/or summer festivals. Should one not opt for a full band, St. Angel is accompanied by a serious sound system that is sure to rock the house regardless. Fans are also encouraged to drop by and check out Michael’s act on the fourth Friday of each month at Chef Shangi-La’s in North Riverside.

You can’t help but notice the fervor St. Angel has for Elvis’ music during his performance – and that’s what you really want in a tribute entertainer. It’s clearly not just a job but a passion – the passion to pass on Elvis’ legacy in a way fit for a king – or The King.  

For upcoming performances and more information on Michael St. Angel, visit his website by clicking here. For upcoming Starved Rock Lodge entertainment click here.