“An Evening with David Stanley” at Westgate is a uniquely personal experience…
In the summer of 2016, a shocking book rocked Elvis Presley fans to their core. “My Brother Elvis: The Final Years” is an emotional memoir by stepbrother David Stanley. It recounts his time as Presley’s aide and bodyguard, providing insight into the addictions and demons that led to the star’s demise.
Along with that publication, Mr. Stanley has been the guiding force behind several written and documentary works on the subject. He found himself in the center of a self-created firestorm last summer after stating that Presley’s death was self-inflicted. He later apologized after Ginger Alden, the former fiancee of Presley, slammed back on the claim.
“Today, David is a writer, producer, director, and founder of Impello Entertainment, Inc. His published works include the New York Times’ bestseller, Elvis We Love You Tender, in addition to The Elvis Encyclopedia, Raised on Rock: Growing Up at Graceland, Conversations With The King: Journals of a Young Apprentice, Restoring My Father’s Honor: A Son’s Crusade, and his most recent, My Brother Elvis: The Final Years.”
Through the years, some have accused Mr. Stanley of capitalizing on his stepbrother’s life and turmoil. One Elvis fan recently stated to this writer that “putting out a new, and false, spin to promote a book alienated a lot of fans.” But here’s an opportunity to form your own opinion by being up close and personal. Hear the words from the witness and get answers from Stanley himself.
MY BROTHER ELVIS: An Intimate Evening with David Stanley is a monthly series at Westgate Las Vegas. It takes place in the very same International Theater where Stanley worked with Presley during his landmark performances. Limited to a small number of attendees, each gathering is unique, allowing guests to ask questions and discover previously unknown details of that period.
Your host for the evening is Gordon Prouty, Westgate’s Vice President of Public Relations and Community Affairs. After a brief introduction in the foyer, Prouty takes you on a glorious tour that few have experienced. Stroll behind the curtain and stand in the very spot where Elvis prayed before going onstage. Descend the stairs to his dressing room, and sit at the original bar where Presley entertained icons like Sammy Davis Jr and Frank Sinatra.
It’s hard to describe the energy that comes from the walls as you stroll the path that The King followed beneath the theater. Vintage photographs in every direction capture moments from Presley’s residency. along with those of other legends who have performed here through the decades.
As you re-enter the theater, you’ll step onto the legendary space where Elvis performed 636 consecutive sold-out shows. Onstage seating gives you an unprecedented point of view as David Stanley joins your group for a once-in-a-lifetime conversation. Along the way, you’ll learn how Stanley’s brothers and mother became a part of the Presley household, and his life as the “little brother” of a global superstar.
As his bond with Elvis grew stronger, Stanley eventually dropped out of school to serve as Presley’s professional assistant. The mounting pressures of fame took their toll, and Stanley found himself in the position of “fixer”, “confidant”, and eventually, part of the “Memphis Mafia”. He was present at Presley’s home in 1977 when his body was discovered by Ginger Alden.
In 2007, “D. Edward Stanley” wrote and directed “Protecting The King“, a feature film depicting Presley’s career from David’s point of view. Starring Peter Dobson, who also portrayed Elvis in “Forrest Gump“, the film was re-released in 2022. Stanley is played by Matt Barr, best known to audiences through Kevin Costner’s “Hatfields & McCoys“. The film, like the man, has received accusations of revisionist history.
A film that Stanley is not thrilled with is Baz Luhrmann’s 2022 Oscar-nominated ELVIS. During the session that this writer attended, Stanley voiced objections to its characterization of Colonel Tom Parker. He stated that while Presley’s manager was undeniably shrewd in his business methods, he considers those actions to have been in his stepbrother’s best interests.
Elvis was known to be incredibly kind, never forgetting his humble beginnings or the ability to make a difference. Stanley shares memories of his stepbrother’s generosity, gifting cars to staff workers and making kind gestures to fans. He closed his lecture with an emotionally-wrought incident involving a young fan in a wheelchair. It brought tears to the eyes of many attendees, myself included.
Once a hormonally-charged young stud on an incredible showbusiness adventure, Mr. Stanley now suffers from the effects of Parkinson’s Disease. But that hasn’t slowed him down. He’s promised an upcoming docu-series for streaming and serves as an ambassador of sorts for Westgate Las Vegas.
David also resides at the hotel, where many claim to see the ghost of Elvis. The fact that unexpected backstage clatter punctuated discussions between Stanley and Prouty during key points was not lost on this attendee.
Whether you’re a ghost hunter, Stanley skeptic, or Elvis aficionado, MY BROTHER ELVIS: An Evening with David Stanley is a riveting and must-do experience that no fan should miss. Along with the tour and interactive lecture, guests will receive a backstage pass, specialty cocktail, and photo opportunities with Mr. Stanley. As this experience is limited to small groups, reservations are required.
MY BROTHER ELVIS: An Evening with David Stanley takes place once monthly at 5 pm. Due to the potential for strong language and situations, all guests must be seventeen or older. Tickets are $111.50 (plus taxes/fees). Click here for the complete schedule and to reserve your seat.
