This comic cabaret showcases the delusions and dreams of the character Presley Tweed, a self-proclaimed almost-star whose hilarious tales from the fringes of fame will leave you in stitches. Presley’s stories are interspersed with performances of iconic Broadway and pop songs, highlighting his lack of focus in musical selection. This show is a heartfelt, humorous journey through the mishaps and misadventures of America’s most forgettable star, promising a night of laughs and musical delight.
Where to See Presley Tweed
- Charm City Fringe: Baltimore, MD, Sept 27-29, 2024
Rodney Brazil has performed the character Presley Tweed for over a decade, with previous shows including “Presley Tweed: One Night Only for Two Nights,” “Presley Tweed’s VD Special,” and “Gypsies, Tramps, and Tweed.” He has also made numerous appearances in the Bang Bang Queer Punk Variety Show.
Production Credits for Presley Tweed: Fancy AF
- Performed by Rodney Brazil
- Written by Rodney Brazil and Benjamin Farha
- Musical Direction by Mary Brozina Wierick
- Promotional Graphic Design: Todd E. Clark
Presley Tweed, the delusional (and fictional) almost-star, hails from Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Born and raised near the airport, just behind the world-famous Christmas decor store North Pole City, Presley’s early life was a blend of mundane suburban existence and flights of fantasy. From a young age, he was captivated by the glitz and glamour of showbiz, dreaming of a life far removed from his humble beginnings.
Presley’s first taste of the spotlight came as a child dancer on The Ben and Butch McCain Show, a local TV program where his uncredited appearance sparked a lifelong obsession with performing. Despite his mother’s misgivings, Presley pursued his passion relentlessly. He claimed his first major role at the age of seven, playing Horace Giddens in a school production of “The Little Foxes.” Recognizing his talent, his mother moved the family to the Putnam City school district to support his acting ambitions.
In high school, Presley immersed himself in the arts, starring in a student production of the musical “Oh, Captain!” Although his true love was singing, his exaggerated sense of self-worth often overshadowed his performances. Inspired by Frank Sinatra’s “My Way,” Presley forged ahead, convinced that he was destined for greatness.
Presley’s career was a patchwork of nearly-made-it moments. He boasts about his role as the original Thuy in the Buck’s County Playhouse’s Pennsylvania premiere of “Miss Saigon,” a performance that lives on only in his embellished recollections.* His resume is filled with similar grandiose claims, from off-off-off-off-off-Broadway productions to regional theater roles like “Always, Patsy Stone,” where he humorously insists he played “Saffron Monsoon.”
Not limited to the stage, Presley dabbled in pulp fiction, authoring “It’s Not That Easy Being Tweed,” a whimsical tale of a young sport coat at summer camp. The book, published by a now-bankrupt company, was optioned for a movie that never materialized. In 2008, Presley released a CD titled “Presley You Can Hear Me,” a collection of nine songs that he confidently asserts is a hidden gem.
Throughout his career, Presley’s biggest hurdle was himself. Known for being difficult to work with, perpetually late, and easily distracted, he often blames others for his lack of fame. Yet, his unwavering belief in his own talent and charm keeps him going. Presley Tweed is a character defined by his delusions of grandeur, a comedic figure whose almost-fame is as entertaining as it is tragic. His stories, filled with humor and pathos, offer a glimpse into the life of a man perpetually on the cusp of stardom, forever chasing the spotlight that always seems just out of reach.
*Disclaimer: Stories about Presley’s past and CV are subject to change without notice.