13-Year-Old Actor From Wilmette Makes Professional Debut In 'Heartbreak Hotel'

WILMETTE, IL — A 13-year-old boy from Wilmette made his professional acting debut last week in the Marriott Theatre's production of "Heartbreak Hotel," a bio-musical about Elvis Presley.

Charles Adler Bischoff, who stars as Kid Elvis, has a unique connection to the King as they both share the same birthday. Charles was born just a minute before Elvis was on Jan. 8, exactly 78 years later.

That connection, and the time Charles dedicated to researching Elvis, set him up for success. He said he mixes his own acting style with what he learned from looking into what the world was like when Elvis was young to fully emulate the character.

"I believe you should really get into character. So I've been researching things that Elvis liked when he was younger," Charles told Patch. "I listen to some music, like Muddy Waters and Robert Johnson, and it was all on vinyl. I've also been watching a few movies that he likes, like 'Rebel Without a Cause.'"

Charles said what he likes most about acting is the ability to step into a different persona and be someone different for just a little bit. His mom, Laural Bischoff, played a big part in getting him on stage.

Bischoff herself has a degree in theater from Loyola University in Chicago, so she's used that knowledge to coach and guide her son. But she also recognizes that a lot of the work needs to come from Charles himself, so she gives him the space to thrive.

"We're always proud of Charles, because he's an incredible human being, and it's very exciting," Bischoff said. "I would say the professional side of it is we're learning the balance between school, rehearsals and productions. But it's been great to guide him into this journey and then to step away and let him shine."

"Heartbreak Hotel" is a jukebox musical that gives audiences a closer look at Elvis' life and what made him an incomparable icon who shaped the history of music and culture. The show features over 40 Elvis hits and iconic songs.

Charles said the cast and crew at The Marriott have done a lot to support him in his first professional role.

Director Deidre Goodwin, known for her work on Broadway and in film, has been a good source to learn from, Charles said. The young actor said she fosters an environment of trust and brings an energy that makes it easy for him to connect to his character and the story.

"I love the team, I love the directors. I love everyone, they're awesome. This is one of the best experiences of my life. I'm enjoying this a lot," Charles said.

Charles said audiences can look forward to learning more about the history of music through intense and sad moments, but also uplifting numbers. Audiences will come away with an understanding of how much times have changed, he said.

The show will run through May 31 at the Marriott Theatre at 10 Marriott Drive in Lincolnshire. Tickets are available online now on The Marriott's website.