Elvis fans flock to The Cannery to pay tribute

The Cannery's annual celebration of Elvis Presley's birthday has forged friendships on both sides of the stage.

"I've met new friends that live here. It's wonderful," says Cynthia Pepper, who is a featured guest every year after co-starring in Presley's 1964 comedy "Kissin' Cousins."

Pepper, who also starred in the 1961-62 sitcom "Margie," doesn't have far to travel after settling in Las Vegas 11 years ago. The movie's title should give you a hint of the question she's most asked during the eight gatherings she's attended: "What was it like to kiss Elvis?"

Her answer: "What do you think? I had to keep doing the scene over and over until I got it right."

"A Celebration of the King" today and Saturday puts Pepper back in touch with new friends such as Elvis impersonator Johnny Fortuno, the Stamps Quartet gospel group, comedian Sammy Shore, Presley sidekick Sonny West and fellow actress Darlene Tompkins. Tickets are $10 at the door for shows at 8 p.m. both days.

Pepper expects the tradition to continue. "He'll never go away, thank goodness," she says of the King.

Contact reporter Mike Weatherford at mweatherford@ reviewjournal.com or 702-383-0288.