In January 2024, I received a wonderful invitation that planted the seed for my latest book, Death of a Legend. Karen Brigner—the wife of Brian Brigner, who helps run the legendary Legends in Concert theater in Myrtle Beach—reached out to me. Karen, a longtime fan of my Myrtle Beach Mystery Series, invited me to tour the theater and explore the idea of writing a story set in this iconic venue.
A Backstage Tour of Legends in Concert Myrtle Beach
As a local author, I was thrilled at the chance to experience one of the most celebrated entertainment landmarks on the Grand Strand. I accepted the invitation and was given an all-access tour of Legends in Concert Myrtle Beach—from its grand lobby to the electric auditorium, from the vibrant stage to the unseen backstage areas, and even the upper levels where the lighting and sound crews make the magic happen.
Every step of the tour inspired me. The theater isn’t just a place where tribute shows happen—it’s a living, breathing community of artists, technicians, and performers, all working together to deliver unforgettable experiences.
Real Performers, Real Stories
The Dolly Parton Spark
One story that particularly stuck with me was about a real Dolly Parton impersonator. Her warmth, dedication, and the way she brought Dolly to life sparked the initial concept for Death of a Legend. What struck me most was that the performers at Legends in Concert aren’t just actors playing dress-up—they are true professionals who become the music legends they portray.
Portraying Music Icons on the Page
That passion fueled my character development in the book. Readers will encounter fictionalized versions of celebrity tribute performers inspired by icons like Dolly Parton, Elvis Presley, Tina Turner, The Blues Brothers, Steven Tyler from Aerosmith, and Michael Jackson.
Freddie Mercury impersonator Fernando Castro
What Happens Behind the Curtain
The Michael Jackson Performer’s Process
It’s easy to be captivated by the lights and music on stage, but I found the real inspiration behind the scenes. For example, the Michael Jackson tribute artist arrives hours before the show begins, meticulously applying makeup and preparing for a high-energy 25-minute set. That level of commitment helped shape many scenes and character arcs in the book.
The True Work Behind the Showbiz Shine
I wanted Death of a Legend to reflect not only the showbiz glamour but also the hard work, resilience, and community spirit that pulse through every corner of Legends in Concert Theater.
Writing the Most Challenging Book Yet
This book was special in many ways—it’s the first in the Myrtle Beach Mystery Series to include scenes from Detective Gomez’s perspective. The plot follows two separate murder investigations that eventually intersect, forcing Clark and Gomez to piece together what each has uncovered.
It was like weaving two ropes into one knot near the end—and that complexity made Death of a Legend the most challenging book I’ve written. But many readers have already said it’s their favorite, and I think it’s mine too.
A Tribute to Myrtle Beach and Its People
As someone who calls Myrtle Beach home, it was important to me to write a story that does justice to the people and places that make this area so special. The Legends in Concert Myrtle Beach theater became more than just a setting—it became a character itself, full of heart and history.
Having personally survived a traumatic brain injury, I also wove in subtle themes of resilience, healing, and determination. Many of the characters—especially those inspired by real performers—embody that same spirit of pushing forward through adversity.
Feel the Magic of Legends in Concert
Whether you’re a longtime fan of the Myrtle Beach Mystery Series, a visitor who’s seen a show at Legends in Concert, or someone who simply loves a good whodunit, I believe Death of a Legend offers a behind-the-curtain look at a world most never get to see.
From the neon glow of the theater marquee to the hush of backstage moments, I hope you feel the heartbeat of Myrtle Beach in every page.
Ready to Discover the Mystery?
🎭 Death of a Legend is now available wherever books are sold.