VW singer to open for Elvis tribute artist

Christmas Garden Decorating Committee information

The Christmas Garden Decorating Committee is proud to announce that “Ohio’s Got Talent!” winner Samantha Rae Duquette will be performing in Fountain Park on August 15. She will be opening for Elvis tribute artist Ben Portsmouth at 7:45 that evening.

Since winning best in Ohio,  Duquette has been busy perfecting her craft all over Ohio and Indiana. At just 15 years old, Duquette’s voice is a soulful, high-energy communication of joy. She makes every song she sings her own, while her stage presence, charisma and ability to connect with her audience can only spell stardom.

At 9 p.m., the “World’s No. 1 Elvis tribute artist”, Ben Portsmouth, takes the stage backed by his nine-piece band. Portsmouth is from England and in 2012 became the very first non-American to win the Ultimate Elvis contest in Memphis, Tennessee. He has performed to sold-out shows all over the world, including headlining “The David Letterman Show”.

Portsmouth’s triple-octave vocal range allows him to hit the most challenging high notes, while his guitar virtuosity enables him to authentically recreate Elvis’s 1968 comeback concert. He looks like Elvis, sings like Elvis and has an extraordinary stage presence that makes people temporarily believe they might be watching “the King” himself.

In the event of bad weather, the concert will be moved to the Niswonger Performing Arts Center in Van Wert. Tickets can be purchased online at www.visionarypromotions.org or by mailing a check to The Christmas Garden Fund, 933 S. Washington St., Van Wert, OH 45891. Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the gate. Those wanting to attend must have a ticket to.

This is quickly becoming a worldwide event and tickets have already been sold in three countries and nine states. All proceeds will be donated to the Christmas Garden Project, so come see a great show and help a great cause at the same time.