“Can’t Help Falling in Love” with the Cause: Elvis Tribute Raises Funds for Charity

Two Elvis impersonators from New Zealand will perform in the Cook Islands to celebrate the 60th birthday of a local Elvis artist and raise funds for charity.

Professional Elvis artists who arrived in Rarotonga last weekend will recreate iconic songs and performances of the King of Rock and Roll Elvis Presley at special events on the island this week.

Johnny-Angel, known as the “Elvis of the Pacific,” and Taurean K Mill, known as the “Elvis of the Southern Cross,” have appeared as professional Elvises, including on cruise ships.

They came here to celebrate their 60th birthday^day A birthday celebration was held at the Umu Experience in Tupapa on Wednesday for Paul Lynch, who has been the Cook Islands Elvis tribute artist for nearly 30 years.

While on the island, they will work with Lynch and perform at various venues to raise funds for the Creative Centre and Cook Islands Tennis.

Last night, they performed at Vaima Restaurant, and on Wednesday morning, they will head to the Creative Center to perform for members of the Center and Are Pa Metua.

On Thursday, the artists will perform a “full show” at Café Ariki to raise funds for the development and facilities of the Cook Islands Tennis Association. The buffet and show will begin at 6pm and tickets are $65 each.

Those invited to Lynch’s birthday celebration were asked to make an online donation to the Creative Center instead of buying him gifts.

Wednesday and Thursday’s events will be nights filled with classic Elvis hits, dazzling performances and the community coming together to create change.

Lynch expressed his excitement about the event and its charitable mission.

“Turning 60 is a major milestone and I want to mark it by giving back to the society that has given me so much,” he said.

Pacific Elvis Johnny Angel said: “It is an honour to be part of such a meaningful event and to be in the Cook Islands again.”

“Elvis always had a big heart and I think he would be happy to know his music was being used to help those in need.”

The performances by visiting artists are free. Lynch’s Cook Islands Holiday Villas provided accommodation for the artists. Island Car and Bike Hire, which provided transportation, and Vili’s Burger Joint were other sponsors.