AS the curtain raised to an orchestral rendition of 2001: A Space Odyssey, it revealed not only the orchestra responsible, but The Sweet Inspirations, The Golden Covenant and all of Elvis's original band mates.

The only thing missing amidst this scene of glitzy razzmataz was the singer we had all come to see.

Using original concert footage, this void was soon filled in fine style as the hip shaking, lip curling king of rock and roll appeared. There he was three times lifesize on a colossal screen centre stage.

His crystal clear image growled and crooned out over 30 songs including Suspicious Minds, Love Me Tender and In The Ghetto, in the way that only the Memphis legend could.

Had you been at the back you may have been forgiven for thinking he was there, such was the slick editing and accomplished camera work.

It was as though it had been pre-planned 30 years ago in preparation for this bizzare and wonderful event.

It was this and the interaction between on-screen Elvis and his real life band mates -- at times, as emotional as the gigantic hits were electrifying, which made the concert an exhilarating and unforgettable experience.

Elvis the Concert 2003, Manchester Arena