Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story – Newcastle Theatre Royal

Writer: Alan Janes

Director: Matt Salisbury

A packed house welcomed the cast of Buddy – The Buddy Holly Story on the opening night at Newcastle Theatre Royal. This multi award–winning show, written for the stage by Alan Janes, first opened in 1989 and is again touring the UK. Why has it been running successfully for so long? Going by the reaction from the first night audience it shows this to be a feel good show. A real tonic that sets your feet tapping and heart crying out for more of the same please.

This is a musical with a storyline. It charts the journey of Buddy Holly’s short career. It’s a story about doing what you love with real determination. From his early days in Lubbock, Texas, where he didn’t want to be ‘’no country star’’, to his rise to stardom in such a short time. His unique style of music was what he was determined to show the world and no one was going to stand in his way. His music was to inspire future artists such as The Beatles and Bob Dylan.

The pace of the show picks up as it goes along. From the slow beginning, setting the scene, to a final explosion of foot tapping music and cries of more from an excited audience. This is a show in two acts. The first act sets the scene with Buddy’s determination and drive clearly shown . Many of his hits are included such as Rave On, That’ll be the Day, Not Fade Away, Peggy Sue and many more. The hand clapping audience clearly enjoying the nostalgic ride. Buddy certainly had them in the palm of his hands.

The second act picks up the pace and ends with the final tour of the Midwest states. He is booked onto the Winter Dance Party with the Big Bopper and Richie Valens. The show’s fabulous ensemble of musicians and singers come into their own for the final medley. The scene ends abruptly with a quick blackout, a spotlight on a lone guitar and the announcement of death of Buddy Holly, The Big Bopper and Richie Valens. Their plane had crashed during a heavy snow storm. And so the music died. But did it? If this evening is anything to go by the music of Buddy Holly lives on.

The simplistic set quite rightly doesn’t detract from the stage performances. The music is the star of this show and takes centre stage throughout. The set is multi faceted, representing several scenes. Such as the radio station, recording studio, Buddy and Elena’s apartment, to name just a few. All created seamlessly by slick scene changes.

Sharing the lead role are AJ Jenks and Christopher Weeks. Tonight the role was taken by Christopher Weeks. Weeks’ characterisation was so well executed that is was easy for the audience to take the nostalgic trip down memory lane back to an era remembered by many in the audience. The iconic sound of Buddy Holly was clearly executed with his hiccoughing vocals and harmonies. And Oh Boy this guy could certainly play the guitar, as was clearly shown during the final scene.

Weeks however isn’t the only star of the night. There were many as this is a cast of highly talented musicians and singers. There were many unforgettable moments, not least being the little ‘pocket rocket’ Miguel Angel who bounced on to the stage with a rendition of Reet Petite. Angel later doubled as Richie Valens, giving the audience a memorable performance of La Bamba.

The cast got a well deserved standing ovation with many wanting more. And they got more. Don’t miss out on this one. You won’t be disappointed especially if you are a fan of Rock ‘n’ Roll.

Rave On Buddy… we all loved you.

Runs until 3rd September 2023.