To Priscilla, with love: Celebrating Priscilla Presley's legacy at Theatre Memphis

Theatre Memphis honored Priscilla Presley’s contributions to Memphis art and tourism Friday night with a gala, “Honoring Priscilla Presley: The Artist, The Woman,” featuring more than a dozen speakers and a live musical tribute.

The organization also announced the dedication of a $2,500 performing arts scholarship in Presley's name.

The event follows the increased attention Memphis received during the promotions for Baz Luhrmann’s movie “Elvis,” including a visit to Graceland by the director and the cast, hosted by Presley herself. This year also marks the 40th anniversary of the opening of Graceland to the public, a move organized by Presley which has brought Memphis millions of visitors from around the world.

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Several Memphis leaders spoke on Presley’s everlasting impact on the city and awarded her honors, including Pastor Keith Norman of First Baptist Church, US. Rep. Steve Cohen and Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland presented Presley with a key to the city.

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But, surely, a highlight of the night were the many friends of Presley, from Luhrmann to country singer TG Sheppard, who appeared, either in person or in video, to share emotional stories, glowing praise and well wishes.

“One might ask how to describe Priscilla Presley,” said her cousin Ivy Iversen. “I say radiant, timeless, and loved.”

And radiant she was, floating across the stage in a flowing black-and-white striped evening gown to accept her plaques and proclamations. With a humble manner and a quiet sense of humor that frequently left the audience in stitches, Presley, 77, made the room feel like a family reunion, rather than a stuffy ceremony.

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Full of laughter and sprinkled throughout with moving snippets from the live band, the evening was a love letter from a city to one of its most beloved icons, a love that is eagerly returned.

“My time in Memphis is what drives me and always has,” Presley said in her speech closing out the night. “Memphis became the only place I could call home, and I still do. I will remember this moment and this evening forever.”

Niki Scheinberg is a reporter at The Commercial Appeal. She can be reached at [email protected].

This article originally appeared on Memphis Commercial Appeal: Priscilla Presley honored by Theatre Memphis with gala, scholarship