Review: Buddy - The Buddy Holly Story (UK Tour) at the Aylesbury Waterside Theatre

Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story (UK Tour)
Aylesbury Waterside Theatre
Reviewed on Monday 28th April 2014

Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story premiered back in 1989, running in the West End for an impressive twelve years. Productions have since been staged all over the world and the show is once again touring the UK to celebrate its twenty-fifth anniversary.

Supported by Paul McCartney and Buddy’s widow, Maria Elena Holly, the musical tells the story of Holly's career from his rise to fame right up until his final legendary performance at the Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake, Iowa, before his tragic death at the age of 22. In just 18 months the Texas-born performer revolutionised and reshaped the path of contemporary music, his story is remarkable.

Two actors currently share the title role and at the performance I saw it was Glen Joseph's turn to step into the spotlight. Joseph has played the role on and off for years, but shows no sign of growing bored. His energy is electrifying and he clearly knows how to work an audience.

The production features 20 of Holly's biggest hits, including 'That’ll Be The Day', 'Peggy Sue', 'Oh Boy and Rave On'. Other influential early rock numbers are included, such as Big Bopper’s 'Chantilly Lace' and Ritchie Valens’ 'La Bamba'. Fans of this music are guaranteed to have a great time, with audience members dancing the night away in the aisles ahead of a full standing ovation for the finale.

The touring design is cheap but cheerful. The story is up and down, with a mixture of interesting and pointless scenes. Luckily the cast give their all and their energy is infectious. It's great to see Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story twenty-five years after its premiere. Few would have predicted its longevity, but its success certainly speaks for itself.

Reviewed by Andrew Tomlins (Editor)

Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story runs at the Aylesbury Waterside Theatre until Saturday 3rd May 2014.

Please visit www.buddythemusical.com for further information and tickets.

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