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© Lucy Young
Buddy Holly rises from the dead in Roger Rowley's energetic performance. And an enthusiastic cast gives every number an infectious effervescence. Not only do the actors sing, but they also multi-task as instrumentalists, in a production which deploys everything from the celeste and leg-slapping drums on 'Everyday', to drums, keyboards, guitar, sax and vocals.
As the eponymous Buddy, Rowley's well-observed performance is hauntingly authentic, from excitable vocals and awkward dancing to unflinching ambition. However it's a weakness that Buddy's death is glossed over, failing to capture the true waste of talent extinguished at 22. And the less said about the Texan accents the better.
However, director John Plews has perfectly honed the script for the small space and the theatre's use of a moving stage and multi-level set makes for an intimate yet spectacular atmosphere. Feeling like we'd stumbled in on a genuine Crickets performance, we start to get an idea of why this rock 'n' roll lark might have caught on.
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What is 'following'?Quality varies wildly at this tiny theatre in North London. You can't fault its charm however, which oozes out of artistic directors John and...
Read full venue reviewTransport Highgate/Archway
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Absolutely brilliant. Great music and lots of energy from Buddy, the Crickets, Big Bopper and Richie Valens. Had the audience on their feet at the end
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