Sheryl Scharkie, also known as ShElvis, stands out among the countless Elvis tribute artists performing throughout the Australian country town of Parkes.
A 64-meter telescope and an annual Elvis Festival, which is now in its 30th year, are both located in Parkes, 350 kilometers northwest of Sydney. Over the course of five days in early January, 24,000 fans visit a town that typically has 14,000 residents.
The most well-known and, for the majority of her nearly ten-year career, only female Elvis Tribute Artist (ETA) in Australia is 64-year-old Scharkie, a nurse by trade.
She still takes pleasure in astounded audiences with her powerful vocal range and deep voice.
Scharkie told Reuters in Parkes, Australia, on Friday, “As soon as I open my mouth, their jaws just drop, and then they start getting into it.”
“When you watch them engage with the music, gender is irrelevant. Gender is no longer an issue; it just goes.
Scharkie has loved Elvis since she was a young girl and has memories of watching his films at her grandmother’s house. Her musical talent and deep voice helped her land male roles throughout high school.
Her friends encouraged her to perform on stage after a disastrous breakup in 2008, which helped launch her music career. Later, she changed into Elvis.
Scharkie, who was recently inducted into the ETA International Hall of Fame, claims that getting to where she is now hasn’t been simple, particularly as a woman.
They are unsure of how to handle me, she said. The biggest obstacle is that.
A “ladies of Elvis” show featuring women from all over the world, according to Scharkie, is something she aspires to perform in. But for the time being, she hopes to encourage more women to join her in the group.
