Highlands Playhouse is now featuring “Buddy – The Buddy Holly Story,” which is jam packed with high-energy music that tells the epic tale of Buddy Holly’s short yet iconic musical career.
Holly, played by 19-year-old Andrew Harvey, said stepping into the shoes of a musical legend was intimidating.
“It’s crazy because Buddy was so nonstop, the idea about what could have happened if he didn’t die,” said Harvey. “Yet in the short time he was here he had such and incredible impact on the industry.”
The star of “Buddy – The Buddy Holly Story,” is portrayed by Andrew Harvey and is playing this weekend at the Highlands Playhouse.
Harvey he and the rest of the cast rehearsed for approx. two weeks and before dress rehearsal on Wednesday said they were ready.
“Buddy sings just about every song in the show,” said Harvey. “I’m nervous of course, but I’m excited for it.”
From left are Travis Welch, Matt Healey, and Andrew Harvey.
Director Marshal Carby said the entire cast does a wonderful job bringing the energy and enthusiasm to each song.
“I want people to come here and have a great time,” he said. “The music is fun, upbeat, entertaining, and I want people to leave with a big smile on their face.”
Big Bopper is played by Jimmy Lewis.
Carby added that Holly is consistently onstage and creating a show that flows well with those kinds of restrictions was an issue at times.
“The biggest thing was coordinating the arc of the show,” said Carby. “I wanted to make it seamless, highlighting his career without slowing the pace of the show. Plus, there has to be times for costume and guitar changes. We need to get those done and then get him back on stage ASAP.”
Buddy Holly pal Ritchie Valens is played by Roberto Mendez.
Playhouse Artistic Director Bill Patti oversees the live-theater aspect of the Playhouse said they have done Buddy in the past, but it just didn’t hit it out of the park like the show is doing this time around.
“We did it about six years ago and the Buddy was really talented, but he was a little old for the part,” said Patti. “Drew (Harvey) is young and just cocky enough to be endearing. It’s high-energy fun.”
J’Quay Lamonte Gibbs plays a performer at the famous Apollo Theater.
Showtimes are today (Friday) at 8 p.m., Saturday at 1 and 8 p.m., and 1 p.m. on Sunday. To purchase tickets or for more information click HERE.
From left are Andrew Harvey and Anissa Garza playing Holly’s love intrerest Maria Elena.
The ensemble includes (not in order) Casey Esbin, Bailey Baker, Olivia Tummillo, and Sami Weathersby.
Article and Photos by Brian O’Shea
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