This winter, the Riverside Center for the Performing Arts is rockin’ with the sounds of Elvis Presley as the high-energy bio-musical Heartbreak Hotel takes the stage.
Created by the visionary behind the Tony Award-winning Million Dollar Quartet, the production delves into the life of the King of Rock and Roll, exploring his rise to stardom and the challenges that shaped his iconic legacy.
Featuring over 40 of Elvis’ greatest hits, including “That’s All Right,” “Hound Dog,” “Burning Love,” and “Jailhouse Rock,” the show blends electrifying performances with storytelling that gives audiences a closer look at the man behind the music. Heartbreak Hotel presents Elvis at pivotal moments in his life, guided by his younger self, in a journey that reveals the struggles and triumphs that made him a legend.
Actors Step Into the King’s Blue Suede Shoes
In a recent interview, Elliot Litherland, who portrays the older Elvis Presley, and Luke Purcell, playing teen Elvis, opened up about their unique experiences bringing the King of Rock and Roll to life on the Riverside Center stage.
“For me, playing Elvis is both an honor and a challenge,” said Litherland, who is no stranger to the role, having performed as Elvis in two previous productions. “Elvis’ music speaks for itself, but our goal is to show the human side of this icon. The show brings out both the joy and the tragedy of Elvis’ life, and we hope audiences leave with a deeper understanding of who he was.”
Luke Purcell, a 15-year-old high school student from Louisa County, shared how his lifelong admiration for Elvis brought him to the production. “Elvis has always been a big part of my life, but it wasn’t until I saw the 2022 biopic Elvis that I truly fell in love with his music and story,” said Purcell. “When I heard Riverside was putting on Heartbreak Hotel, I knew I had to audition. It’s been my dream to play Elvis, and doing so alongside such a talented cast is a dream come true.”
Litherland was quick to praise his younger counterpart, revealing how Purcell’s audition impressed the production team so much that they created a special role for him. “Luke is only 15, but his talent is incredible. He knocked everyone’s socks off during auditions. It’s amazing to see someone so young bring such depth and energy to this role,” said Litherland. “Honestly, when Luke leaves the stage, audiences can take or leave me. He’s the real star.”
The pair also discussed the challenges of portraying a figure as iconic as Elvis Presley. “It’s always nerve-wracking to step on stage as Elvis because everyone has their own vision of who he was,” said Purcell. “For me, it’s important to avoid being a caricature. Elvis was a real person with incredible talent and struggles, and I want to honor that.”
Litherland echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of balance in their performances. “What sets Heartbreak Hotel apart is its focus on storytelling. It’s not just a concert of Elvis’ hits—it’s a deep dive into his life, the highs and lows, and the humanity behind the legend,” he explained. “The show also touches on the struggles Elvis faced, from the pressures of fame to his relationships with those around him.”
Both actors credited the Riverside production team for creating a supportive and collaborative environment. “This cast feels like a family,” said Purcell. “Everyone, from the directors to the musicians, has been amazing to work with. It makes all the difference when you’re telling such a powerful story.”
The actors also reflected on the broader impact of Elvis’ music and legacy. “There’s a reason his music still resonates today,” said Litherland. “Even for those of us too young to have lived during his heyday, his influence is undeniable. It’s an honor to carry that torch, even if just for a little while.”
Performances and Ticket Information
Heartbreak Hotel runs at the Riverside Center through March 2, 2025, offering audiences a vibrant blend of live music, dance, and storytelling. The schedule includes matinees and evening performances to suit every schedule.
- Wednesday Matinees:
Meal Service: 11:30 AM – 12:45 PM
Show-Only Arrival: 12:45 PM
Performance Start: 1:30 PM - Thursday – Saturday Evenings:
Meal Service: 5:30 PM – 6:45 PM
Show-Only Arrival: 6:45 PM
Performance Start: 7:30 PM - Sunday Matinees:
Meal Service: 1:00 PM – 2:15 PM
Show-Only Arrival: 2:15 PM
Performance Start: 3:00 PM
Ticket Prices:
- Dinner & Show: Adults $82, Seniors $77, Children $70
- Show Only: Adults $65, Seniors $60, Children $55
- Military Discount: $77 (limit 4 tickets)
- RUSH Tickets: $35 (same-day purchase, limited availability)
The Stafford County Board of Supervisors will meet on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at 5 p.m. at the County Government Center at 1300 Courthouse Road. One of the key items on the agenda is a proposal to bring a new outpatient behavioral therapy clinic to the Griffis-Widewater District.
Renaissance Healthcare Group Virginia, LLC has applied for a Conditional Use Permit (CUP24155647) to operate a hospital use within the B-2 Urban Commercial Zoning District at 125 Woodstream Blvd, Suite 401. If approved, the clinic will provide adult behavioral therapy and counseling services, with operations limited to 5,050 square feet and open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Monday through Friday.
The staff has recommended approval of the proposal, stating that it aligns with the county’s Comprehensive Plan, which supports commercial development in suburban areas. Additionally, the clinic’s location and intended use are consistent with the existing development pattern along Garrisonville Road.
The county’s Planning Commission previously reviewed the application and voted unanimously in favor of recommending its approval. No significant adverse impacts have been identified in staff evaluations, strengthening the case for approval.
The public is encouraged to attend Tuesday’s meeting to provide feedback on the proposal and other agenda items. Stay with Potomac Local News for updates on the outcomes of the meeting and other developments in Stafford County.
Step back in time and immerse yourself in history at the Gari Melchers Home and Studio during their Free Admission Sundays in January! From Sunday, January 12, 2025, through Sunday, January 26, 2025, visitors can enjoy this beautiful property and its fascinating story without paying a dime.
Explore the Legacy:
Gari Melchers, an acclaimed American artist, and his wife Corinne made Belmont their home. This historic estate offers a glimpse into their life, art, and the serene surroundings they cherished. Stroll through the meticulously preserved studio, elegant home, and breathtaking gardens.
Event Details:
Location: Gari Melchers Home and Studio
Dates: Sunday, January 26
Cost: FREE
Share Your Event for FREE!
Hosting an event you’d like to share with the community? It’s easy—and free—to submit! Just fill out this form: Submit Your Event Here.
How to Submit:
- Click the link above.
- Complete the form with your event details.
- Hit submit—your event will be reviewed and shared!
Don’t miss this chance to enjoy history and art at Belmont, and remember to spread the word about your own events with a free listing!
Two lost dogs are currently waiting to reunite with their families at the Stafford County Animal Shelter. If you recognize these pets, please contact the shelter as soon as possible.
Gray and White Mixed Breed Dog
- Gender: Male, intact
- Weight: 22 pounds
- Found: January 14, 2025, on Carriage Hill Road, 22405
- Details: No collar, no microchip
Female Yorkie
- Weight: Approximately 6 pounds
- Found: January 13, 2025, on Little Oak Road, 22405
- Details: Wearing a sweater (put on by shelter staff), no collar, microchipped but not registered to the current owner
Proof of ownership, such as a photo ID, is required to claim these dogs.
Stafford County Animal Shelter
26 Frosty Lane
Stafford, VA 22554
- Phone: 540-658-7387
- Email: [email protected]
Hours for Walk-In Visits:
- Monday-Friday: 11:00 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
- Saturdays: 9:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
- Closed Sundays and holidays
Please share to help these dogs find their way back home.
Dr. Janet Gullickson, the first female president of Germanna Community College, will retire in July 2025 after eight years of leadership.
During her tenure, Gullickson oversaw significant enrollment growth, national recognition by the Aspen Institute, and the distinction of being the first college to host Amazon Web Services' mobile classroom. She also spearheaded work-based learning initiatives, including paid internships, to enhance student career readiness.
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The City of Fredericksburg and Stafford County have both announced water main breaks on Saturday, January 11, 2025.
From Fredericksburg, 10 p.m.:
There have been two water main breaks, one in the area of River Walk Street and Bakersfield Lane and the other in the area of Hanson Avenue and Woodford Street. The residents in both areas will be without water for an undetermined amount of time. We ask for your patience during this time.
From Stafford, 1 p.m.:
There is a water main break at 324 Warrenton Road. The far right westbound lane of Route 17 (Warrenton Road) is closed while repairs are made. Please be careful driving in the area as crews are out working to try to get the repair made as quickly as possible.
In this episode of the Potomac Local Podcast, Uriah Kiser interviews Delegate Paul Milde, a Republican representing Stafford County in Virginia’s 64th District. Delegate Milde discusses his reelection campaign, his work on transportation funding, data center growth, land preservation efforts, and revitalizing blighted areas like Aquia Town Center.
Stay informed by signing up for our free email newsletter at PotomacLocalNews.com, where we’ve been publishing local news for Fredericksburg, Manassas, and Woodbridge for over 15 years.
Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe to our channel for more interviews and local news coverage.
Planet Fitness opened its first location in Stafford. The new 30,900-square-foot facility, located at 1455 Stafford Market Place in the Stafford Market Place shopping center, is designed to provide a welcoming, judgment-free environment for individuals at all fitness levels.
The building used to house a Best Buy that announced its closure one year ago after 16 years in business. Our coverage of the closure was some of the most-read content on Potomac Local News in 2024.
