The Fireside auditions and hires professional singers, dancers and actors from all over the United States. Many come with Broadway and National Tour experience. All of them come with great talent and a passion for their craft.
Leo Days (as Elvis Presley) Leo’s journey as an Elvis tribute artist began in 1983, when, at just three years old, he watched Elvis Presley singing “If I Can Dream” on television in his Michigan home. The moment struck a chord with him, and from that day on he immersed himself in the music and movies of The King of Rock and Roll. Over the years, Leo perfected the mannerisms, look, and voice of Elvis, becoming a true embodiment of the American legend. With incredible live vocals and the ability to play both piano and guitar, Leo delivers an authentic rock and roll experience, captivating audiences worldwide. He has performed thousands of shows, from weddings and corporate events to theaters, cruise ships, casinos, and music festivals. For the past decade, Leo has been a staple with Legends in Concert, the longest-running show on the Las Vegas Strip, performing at venues across the country including the ELVIS LIVES Tour and VIVA ELVIS with Cirque Du Soleil. He has a loyal fan base who follow him wherever he performs.
Travis Powell (as Elvis Presley) delivers a tribute to the King of Rock and Roll that is as dynamic and compelling as Elvis himself. His portrayal of Elvis at the peak of his career captivates audiences from the moment he steps on stage. With grace, charisma, and a sensational voice, Travis transports showgoers back in time to an era when droves of devoted Elvis fans gathered to witness music history in the making. An internationally recognized artist and recurring top-five finalist in The Ultimate Elvis Tribute Competition, Travis has solidified his tribute act as one of the best in the world. His dedication to faithfully recreating Elvis’ iconic performances, both in look and sound, has earned him recognition from fans and peers alike. Travis Powell has had the privilege of performing for audiences across the globe, and he is thrilled to continue sharing his talents and passion for Elvis with all who come to see his show.
Taylor Rodriguez (as Elvis Presley) From the moment he takes the stage, Taylor Rodriguez captivates the crowd with his deeply rooted passion for entertaining. Whether performing a tribute to Elvis Presley, gospel and rockabilly music, classic country songs, or popular hits, his unique voice and intriguing stage presence allows the audience to unwind and enjoy his natural and pleasing manner. He takes the audience on a musical journey while invoking memories of days past. Taylor is from Lynchburg, Virginia and has performed in many musicals including MILLION DOLLAR QUARTET and The West Coast Premiere of ELVIS THE MUSICAL where he starred as Elvis Presley. In 2017 he was named One of the Top 5 Elvis Tribute Artist in the world. In June of 2019, he was crowned the 2019 Tupelo Elvis Festival Champion. Recently, Taylor Rodriguez was named The 2019 Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Champion by Elvis Presley Enterprises (EPE).
Carol Maccri Gossamer (as Ann-Margret) is a seasoned professional singer and dancer with over 25 years of experience in the entertainment industry. She began her career performing for Merv Griffin at Resorts Casino, and quickly made her way to Las Vegas, where she continued to follow her dreams on the big stage. Carol’s career then took her aboard major cruise lines, performing for Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Princess, Norwegian, and Disney Cruise Lines. She also choreographed and performed throughout Europe with the USO International Touring Show. As a veteran performer with Legends in Concert, Carol portrayed Ann-Margret in the international touring productions of ELVIS LIVES and BACK IN THE BUILDING. Carol’s passion for performing extends to her collaborative work with her husband, Peter, in their magic illusion show, GOSSAMER MAGIC which they have performed in Branson, Myrtle Beach, and around the world.
Kate Maxhimer (as Ann-Margret), a Minnesota native, is excited to be back headlining as Ann-Margret with Legends in Concert! A seasoned performer, Kate began her career with the company in 2003 as a singer and dancer, before advancing to roles as both a vocal director and tribute artist. She has had the honor of portraying Lady Gaga and, more recently, Ann-Margret, first premiering the role during the ELVIS LIVES National Tour in 2015, including performances in Singapore. Since then, she has continued to share her incredible talent across the country, delighting audiences with her dynamic performances. In addition to her performing career, Kate is passionate about teaching and is currently in her eighth year as a theater specialist at a charter school in Las Vegas. There, she uses her professional expertise to mentor and inspire the next generation of aspiring performers, helping them hone their skills and prepare for careers in the arts.
Roberto G. Vazquez (Musical Director, Keyboards) is a spirited and passionate Cuban-born musician. He began his studies at age 10 and is a graduate of their National School of Music with degrees in French Horn and Piano. His eclectic career includes live shows, TV, U.S. and world tours, and recordings with celebrities of American and Latin music. Tours include Chayanne, Marc Anthony, and Marco A Solis. Recording projects include such artists as Marion Meadows, Peter White, and Maysa. He has been reviewed in Billboard Magazine, All About Jazz, Smooth Jazz Vibes, and more. Roberto has recorded three albums and four singles as well as collaborations with other artists. He performs piano and keyboards for over 4,000 people each week with LEGENDS IN CONCERT on the Las Vegas strip. Roberto’s versatile and masterful performances create beautiful and moving music that speaks for itself.
Robbie Gates (Drums) was raised in Sweet Water, Alabama. His passion for music took root early when he became a snare drummer in his high school marching band. A devastating hand injury threatened to end his musical journey, requiring four surgeries and countless hours of physical therapy. During this time Robbie discovered musical theater and instantly fell in love with it. Realizing he could turn a passion into a career, he began working as a stagehand with the ultimate goal of returning to the stage as a drummer. He progressed through a variety of roles, including stage manager, lighting engineer, and audio engineer. Eventually an opportunity arose to return to music as a drummer, and he seized it. Since then, Robbie has performed on stages across the United States, recorded as a studio drummer for numerous artists, and made several television appearances. Robbie hopes his story will inspire others to never give up on their dreams.
Manuel Trujillo (Guitar) aka El Tru, is an accomplished guitarist and musician with a rich career spanning classical, electric, and jazz genres. His musical journey began early, studying classical guitar under the tutelage of José Armando Guzmán from 1974 to 1980. He furthered his education at the Antonio Guiteras University (1980-1985) and the Ignacio Cervantes School of Music (1980-1985). By the mid-’80s, Manuel began his professional career as a guitarist and instructor. In the mid-1990s, Manuel played guitar and tres at Gloria Estefan’s Larios on the Beach from 1995 to 2000, further refining his craft in a live performance setting. He has worked with acts including Ariel, Retrofunk, Ahi Na Ma, Daniel de Los Reyes, Orlando Hernandez Quartet, and Janio Hidalgo’s Trio. He also produced three critically acclaimed albums with Ahi Na Ma. Manuel now showcases his dynamic playing as lead guitarist with Legends in Concert’s iconic live shows.
Julio Hernandez (Bass) was born in Havana, Cuba. He started playing at the age of 15 in Miami, taught by his father, Orlando Papito Hernandez. At the age of 16, he started working at clubs in Miami, later on moving to Las Vegas where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree at the University of Nevada. He had started working at the Dunes Hotel in the show Casino de Pari on the Vegas strip at 17. Returning to Miami in 1984, Julio started touring and recording for hundreds of artists. He has recorded on over 700 albums for such artists such as Barbra Streisand, Barry Gibb, Christina Aguillera, Michael Bolton, Natalie Cole, boyz 2 men, Julio Iglesias, Sam Moore, Chayanne (musical director), Ricky Martin, Marco Antonio solis, Luis Miguel, Cristian Castro, Jose Jose, and Jose Luis Rodriguez (El Puma) just to name a few.
Jenelle Catherina (Ensemble) was recently seen as Gale Weathers in the viral production of SCREAM’D: An Unauthorized Musical Parody and as Jane Doe in Majestic Rep’s production of RIDE THE CYCLONE. Before that, Jenelle was performing across the globe as Lan in Stephen Schwartz’s THE SECRET SILK and as a Resident Guest Entertainer aboard the Royal Princess from 2022 to 2024. Jenelle would like to thank her parents and her partner for their unwavering support throughout her journey.
Kieu T. Grisby (Ensemble) is an international live performer, and part time dance and fitness coach. Born in California, Kieu began singing, and dancing professionally at age 11. He studied at the East Bay Center of Performing Arts before starting his musical theater career and won first place in a national hip hop competition with his team Hypnotik Groove, before representing the U.S.A. in Germany’s International Congress. After a five year contract in Vegas, Kieu went on to work with a touring Motown Quartet, Toni Braxton, Chaka Khan, Michael Jackson, and Dancing with the Stars. He’s lived and performed in Canada, Germany, and China. Currently, Kieu performs with his Jackson 5 stage brothers in the heart of Las Vegas. When not performing, he is a passionate teacher, writer, producer, and director with a deep commitment to his craft, developing new talent and sharing his knowledge as an inspirational life coach.
Caroline Laurent (Ensemble) is a talented performer based in Las Vegas, where she spent much of her childhood backstage, watching her parents perform. Following in their footsteps, Caroline has become one of the headlining hosts of the multi-award-winning comedy dinner show MARRIAGE CAN BE MURDER. From an early age, Caroline developed a deep passion for the arts, particularly in singing and comedy. With a background in musical theater, she graduated from the prestigious Las Vegas Academy of the Performing Arts in 2022. While she may be on the younger side, Caroline’s performances are marked by a captivating old-world sound and a stage presence that belies her age. Whether she’s delivering laughs as a host or showcasing her vocal talent, Caroline continues to enchant audiences with her unique blend of charm, humor, and musicality.
Tony Torres (Captain, Ensemble) has been performing professionally since the age of 10. He began his singing career in his homeland of Hawaii performing on cruise ships and in local hotels. This work led him to the mainland where he pursued a career in musical theatre. Tony moved to Las Vegas when he landed the principal role of Rusty in Andrew Lloyd Webber’s STARLIGHT EXPRESS. He went on to play Phoebus and Notre Dame De Paris and toured with Mary Wilson of The Supremes in SOPHISTICATED LADIES. He was also the featured performer in the Off Broadway Production of TONY AND TINA’S WEDDING in Las Vegas and originated the role in the Maui Production. Always one to try new challenges, Tony was asked to put together a Prince tribute act for LEGENDS IN CONCERT which he performed in Berlin, Australia, Japan, and throughout the U.S. Tony also enjoys a second career as a professional hair stylist.