“Elvis” Visits the Firehouse Arts Center

Pleasanton’s begins its 2012 programming with Jim Anderson and The Rebels in a tribute to the early career of Elvis Presley at 8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 7.

The Firehouse Arts Center is located at 4444 Railroad Avenue in downtown Pleasanton.

Anderson takes the audience on a journey back to a time to when “the King’s” music was considered by some to be “too dangerous for the youth of today.” 

The show includes early (1954-66) hits such as “Heartbreak Hotel,” “Hound Dog,” “Don’t Be Cruel,” “Jailhouse Rock” and more. 

Anderson began performing as a high school student and was an instant sensation with his rendition of “Love Me Tender” at a school variety show. He was booked as an opening act for prominent groups such as The Platters, The Coasters and The Isley Brothers, and the “Ragin’ Cajun” Doug Kershaw, but decided to leave the music industry in favor of a career in law enforcement.  

Forced to retire from his law enforcement career because of injuries in the line of duty, Anderson eventually returned to music in 2010 and has proceeded to build a fan base nationwide. 

He is joined on stage by The Rebels band, drummer Gregg Landrey, lead guitarist Paul “Frank,” keyboardist Tom Farnsworth and bass guitarist Micky Yamo.

Andersons says, “I am going to keep doin’ this ‘til the day I die. It has always been my first passion. I get so nervous before every performance, but can’t wait to step on stage. The excitement of what each show brings is always incredible, no matter how big or small the venue is.”

Tickets are Adult: $15, $20 and $25; Child: $12 and Senior: $20.  Group discounts are available. Tickets may be purchased online at www.firehousearts.org up to three hours prior to the performance, by phone at (925) 931-4848, or in person at the Firehouse Arts Center Box Office. 

Box Office hours are Wednesday-Friday, noon-6 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.-4 p.m., and for two hours prior to the performance. The entrance to free parking is on Spring Street near First Street.