The mid 1950s were a time of change, but two theatres on Granville Street’s Theatre Row, the Orpheum and the Capitol had very competitive managers. In 1956 Capitol manager Charlie Doctor (above) won the rights to show Elvis’ first movie Love Me Tender.

Recognizing the many promotions I had worked with competitor Ivan Ackery at the Orpheum, he invited me to host the premiere showing. I gladly accepted as this was Elvis’ first movie and the excitement was rising. There was one glitch. I had a dance gig on Vancouver Island and had to race back to be on hand for the premiere. Needless to say I was tired but at 19 years of age you know no fear. When I arrived in the morning of the matinee the line-ups of fans stretched around the block!

I was mesmerized by Elvis’ popularity. For the evening show I asked listeners whose last name was Presley to come to the show as our guests. A few showed up! The day was a smash and everyone was happy. I was delighted because without telling me Charlie Doctor put my name at the top of the marquee. What a surprise.

I treasure that photo to this day and my friend, artist Brian Croft has captured that opening day in an outstanding painting which used to hang at the Red Robinson Show Theatre. This was one of those truly unforgettable days in my career.