In just three short years, Buddy Holly set the music world on fire and forever changed the face and sound of rock ’n’ roll. “Buddy – The Buddy Holly Story,” the musical that charts his meteoric climb, legendary adventures and tragic fall, kicks off OnStage Playhouse’s 2016-17 season of shows.
Armed with an electric guitar, his signature specs and a charismatic blend of rockabilly swagger, “Buddy” explodes onto the stage in this jukebox musical fully loaded with classics such as “Peggy Sue,” “Oh Boy!,” “That’ll Be the Day,” “Everyday” and more with an encore that will have you on your feet dancing.
Beisdes Holly’s hits, the musical includes other top songs from the 1950s, such as “La Bamba” and “Chantilly Lace.”
The cast across the board included excellent actors, musicians and singers — triple threats. Noah Zuniga-Williams was totally believable in the role of Buddy and stole audience hearts.
The young band members the Crickets (played by Jared Alatorre and Carlos Hernandez) and the other musicians were a show in themselves. Anthony Donovan as the Big Bopper was a standout with his smooth voice and subtle humor. Kelly-Noelle Henry played the role of Buddy’s girlfriend with charm.
The audience hummed and foot-tapped along with enthusiasm during the show, many of whom remembered those early days. One audience member commented how great to have Buddy Holly and the young men in the band similar in age to the actual Crickets.
OnStage Playhouse consistently continues to present strong theater.
Teri Brown, in her first foray into directing a musical, has made on-the-mark choices in regard to pacing, mood and providing joyous entertainment. She and musical director Martin Martiarena hand picked the cast which proved a perfect combination of talent.
All the musical numbers were a hit.
Others behind the scenes — lighting designer Chad Oakley, sound designer Steven Murdock and costumer designer Pam Stompoly-Ericson — all added to the genuine feel of the early days of rock ’n’ roll. Choreographer Dawn Marie Zuniga-Williams added dancing from the era and moves involving the bass fiddle that were awesome.
Reserve tickets by calling 422-RSVP (7787) or visit online at www.onstageplayhouse.org.
OnStage Playhouse is located on historic Third Avenue in downtown Chula Vista, within walking distance of many restaurants for pre- and post-show dining. Parking is available.
Performances run through Aug. 6.
