Grand Opera House, York – until 25th March 2023
Reviewed by Katie Brewerton
4 ****
Going in to this show I knew very little about Buddy Holly and his tragic story. Beginning with his introduction to the music world with everyone around him encouraging him to be a country singer we join Buddy Holly (Christopher Weeks) and the Crickets trying to make a name for themselves in the world of Rock ‘n’ Roll in the 1950s. Buddy refuses to give in to the radio station and record labels and plays the music he loves, he finds a record company willing to record and produce their music and becomes a star.
After a tragic accident at only 22 Buddy Holly’s legacy lives on in his music and what he achieved is all the more unbelievable given the age he died.
Even if you’re not familiar with Buddy Holly’s music there’s bound to be the odd song you know with hits including ‘Everyday’, ‘Heartbeat’ and ‘La Bamba’.
The second half focuses on Buddy’s final performance in Clear Lake, with hit after hit being performed by Buddy Holly and his band as well as the 2 people who would accompany Buddy in the fateful plane crash that would end his life. Ritchie Valens (Miguel Angel) and J.P. Richardson ‘The Big Bopper’ (Christopher Chandler). Christopher Weeks as Buddy is phenomenal and vocal and instrumental talent is abundant on stage with a wonderful supporting cast.
Despite the tragic end to the show which left a stunned silence across the theatre this is a fantastic, uplifting and fun filled show and one to add to the list of must see’s whether you’re a Buddy Holly fan or not.