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Dean
Vegas sang his first rendition of an Elvis song at his school play 'Bye
Bye Birdie' and he sang 'Rubberneckin' which was re-released in
September 2003 and has since been put into Dean's repertoire. Dean
won the role of Conrad Birdie in the play. This was his first stage role.
1993:
Dean was selected along with nine other Elvis
fans to perform at
the Elvis Convention at Southbank, Brisbane. After his performance
Dean realised that his passion and love of Elvis and
his music confirmed the desire to become a Tribute artist. 1996:
Dean decided it was now time to follow
his dream that included
putting together his own tribute show. His first performance was
at a club in Fortitude Valley, Brisbane, in front of an audience of 36
people using only backing tapes. 1997:
Towards the end of 97 Dean joined the show
and entertainment
department
at Warner Bros Movie World on the Gold Coast. Showcasing
his talents as an Elvis Tribute Artist. Dean performed three
times a day and also presented at many functions and special events
outside of work hours. Dean's profile and popularity was growing
and his fan base began to significantly increase through his dynamic
shows throughout Clubs and venues across Queensland. 1999-2000:
Dean's dream to attend the Canadian Elvis
Convention
became
a reality when Warner Bros. Movie World provided sponsorship
to compete. With a field of more than 100 competitors Dean
took out third place and put his name on the map as one of the up
and coming tribute artists. The following year Dean went back to Canada
where he won the title "World No 1 Elvis Tribute Artist" - This
provided media frenzy and Dean's win was publicised Canada wide.
Among the many fans and media congratulating Dean were Honorary
guests. Elvis' original drummer D J Fontana and Tour Manager and long time friend, Jo Esposito. Many were
impressed with Dean's likeness to the King Of Rock, thus Dean was also given the prestigious "E
Award". This
honour is only presented to artists who most accurately depict The King and is awarded on votes made by
other competitors!
It was around this time that Dean became "The First Official Elvis Marriage Celebrant" in
Australia.
2001:
With Dean now a highly recognised performer,
invitations came flooding in for
live
shows, guest appearances and TV offers. Among these Dean was
invited to Memphis
as an Honorary Guest at the Elvis Memorial Dinner that was held at the famous
Peabody Hotel.
2002-2003:
The next couple of years provided Dean with a
hectic schedule which included
winning the title of Best Australian Tribute Artist at the Wintersun Rock and
Roll Awards. Touring has become a way of life with regular trips interstate as well
as overseas. Places include Las Vegas, Bali, Indonesia, Canada and Memphis. Dean
has appeared in numerous TV commercials and radio shows and continues to wow
audiences with his Vegas style show. 2004:
With a strong and dedicated fan base Dean had
the opportunity to run for Mayor
of the Gold Coast City. The campaign was a strong and honest one and had overwhelming
support from a diverse section of the community. Dean's passion, warmth
and the ability to listen to the people strengthened not only his fans but introduced
many people to a talented artist who understands the difficulties facing
communities. 2005:
June/July Dean was invited to attend the
Penticton Pacific Northwest Elvis Festival
where he performed at the Professional Tribute Show. While over there Dean
was invited back to the Collingwood Elvis Festival as a special guest. Deans
shows offer a dynamic and powerful performance that will leave you breathless
and wanting more. We will keep you posted on the latest Dean Vegas news
- and to all the fans a big THANK YOU.
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