The Buddy Holly Story – A jukebox journey through rock and roll history

I always like to be honest with you, our readers, so I am not going to pretend I walked into The Buddy Holly Story as a superfan. In fact, in the lead up to reviewing the show, I repeatedly found myself calling him “Buddy Holiday,” much to the amusement of those around me. Yes, I know… very different legends, but both iconic in their own right.

That said, sometimes going in with fresh eyes is exactly what a show like this needs.

Currently playing at Belfast’s Grand Opera House until Saturday 4 April 2026, this long running production returns with a familiar energy and a leading performance from AJ Jenks, who once again steps into the role of Buddy Holly with confidence and charisma.

From the outset, it is clear that this is not your typical book musical. Instead, The Buddy Holly Story leans heavily into its identity as a live concert experience, and honestly, that is where it thrives. The audience, made up largely of those who grew up with or deeply appreciate Holly’s music, were completely immersed from the first note. By the finale, the theatre had transformed into something closer to a 1950s gig, with people dancing in the aisles and singing along.

And I have to admit, I was surprised by just how many songs I recognised. Whether consciously or not, Buddy Holly’s influence runs deep. Tracks like That’ll Be The Day, Peggy Sue, Oh Boy and Everyday are woven into the fabric of music history, and hearing them performed live with such authenticity is genuinely thrilling.

Act One charts Holly’s rise to fame alongside The Crickets, from early struggles with record labels pushing a country sound, to finding his voice in rock and roll. His collaboration with producer Norman Petty is explored, along with his relentless work ethic and creative drive. There is a real sense of momentum as we watch a young artist shape not only his own career but an entire genre.

A standout moment comes during the Apollo Theatre sequence in Harlem. The energy shifts, the stakes feel higher, and the cast rise to the occasion. It is bold, vibrant and one of the most memorable sections of the night.

Act Two shifts tone and structure, moving away from traditional storytelling and leaning fully into the concert format. The final scenes at the Surf Ballroom feel less like theatre and more like you have been transported back in time to witness one of Holly’s last performances. It is here that the full company truly shine, playing instruments live on stage, showcasing impressive musicality alongside strong vocal performances.

There are also moments of lightness and humour woven throughout, particularly in the audience interaction, which adds to the show’s charm and accessibility.

At the centre of it all is AJ Jenks, who delivers a performance that feels effortless yet controlled. He captures Holly’s distinctive style without tipping into caricature, and more importantly, he keeps the audience engaged from start to finish. It is a role that demands both musical precision and stage presence, and he delivers on both fronts.

If you are expecting a deeply layered narrative musical, this may not be that show. But if you are looking for a feel good night out filled with timeless music, strong performances and a nostalgic atmosphere, The Buddy Holly Story absolutely delivers.

Whether you are a lifelong fan or, like me, coming in with limited knowledge, one thing becomes very clear. Rock and roll as we know it would not exist without Buddy Holly.

And for that reason alone, this show is worth your time.

The Buddy Holly Story runs at the Grand Opera House, Belfast until Saturday 4 April 2026. Get your tickets at goh.co.uk