This isn’t a sponsored post.
BrumHour saw Buddy at the invite of Birmingham Hippodrome.
For Brum Radio’s Interval Theatre, Singer and actor, AJ Jenks talked about returning to his home town of Birmingham for the opening venue on the UK Tour of Buddy, The Buddy Holly Story. Listen below:
By Dave Massey
This production contains audience participation and some minor language.
Buddy at Birmingham Hippodrome: Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐A fun musical night out.
Directed by Matt Sailsbury, written by Alan Janes,
Told as part concert-part story, the short musical career of Buddy Holly (played by the excellent AJ Jenks) is told through the music connected to him and the artists he directly worked with.
This is a two-hour and fifteen-minute musical where the songs he wrote are the main feature. From Peggy Sue to That’ll Be the Day and Not Fade Away, there are plenty of big tracks in the mix with that 1950s Rock and Roll vibe throughout. There’s also plenty of Country music at the start, which explores the genre Buddy Holly was leaving behind. There are two moments where it goes full concert, once for the last ten minutes of the first half, and then most of the second half.
The set is static with three walls facing the audience to form studios, music receptions, and even the concert venue (with added silver curtains).
The end feels a tad rushed, and for some of the audience, this comes as a massive shock. (There were gasps!)
My favourite song is Jonny B Goode, and you’ll have your own. along with lead actor AJ Jenks, Miguel Angel, and Joshua Barton are both great as young Richie Valens and The Big Bopper. The main company appear to play all their own instruments which is fantastic.
A fun musical night out. Buddy is at Birmingham Hippodrome until 30th August 2025. Book tickets here: birminghamhippodrome.com/calendar/buddy.
