Telling the story of an icon of the genre, Buddy is bringing rock 'n' roll to the West Midlands in style.
Considering this show represents a period of just 18 months, the ground it covers is phenomenal. Buddy tells the story of one man's meteoric rise to fame. From his early influences to becoming an international star, right up until his legendary final performance at the Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake, Iowa – and tragic, untimely death at the age of just 22.
In that short time frame, the boy from Texas revolutionised an entire genre. He changed how music was written, recorded and performed in ways that are still relevant today. Holly influenced everyone from The Beatles to Bob Dylan, the Rolling Stones to Fleetwood Mac and this production capitalises on the respect and adoration that the public still have for him so perfectly.
It's local lad, AJ Jenks who takes on the titular role; one he's performed on numerous occasions before - and it shows. The ease with which he slips into character makes for a solid and comfortable performance - comfortable because there's a die-hard audience of Holly fan's who want to hear their heroes back catalogue and see his story come to life. Jenks' care and attention to detail, without becoming a parody of the legend, is admirable and his vocals are perfect.
Making up the comparatively small cast are an equally talented bunch of actor-musicians who bring the full rock 'n' roll experience to Brum. Joshua Barton returns to the role of Big Bopper and mesmerises the audience with his rendition of Chantilly Lace, alongside the insanely energetic Niguel Angel as Richie Valens - however it's the chemistry of the full ensemble that brings this piece to life so mesmerisingly.
Buddy really punches above its weight. Although it's visually beautiful - and of its time - it's not got set pieces flying in and light shows that would make Glastonbury look like Pontins. This production relies on sheer talent and experience to portray the story of a musical icon in easaily one of the best shows on the road this year.
Buddy - The Buddy Holly Musical plays at Birmingham Hippodrome until Saturday 30th August. For more information or to get tickets, head to birminghamhippodrome.com.
