Go to the mobile version of this Web site.

Login | Contact Us | Site Map | Paid archives | Electronic edition | Subscription Questions | Extras

Music takes center stage in Buddy Holly story

By Lisa Bornstein, Rocky Mountain News (Contact)

Published July 17, 2008 at 6 p.m.

Text size  

More Theater

More stories »

Under normal circumstances, Bennett Dunn could be cited for a terrific performance in the title role of Buddy . . . the Buddy Holly Story.

Under these, he's nothing short of heroic.

The young actor, who had performed the role on the national tour, stepped into the Arvada Center production only days before opening when the original lead actor pulled out. He's too good-looking to play rock 'n' roll's original geek (he's more of a Rob Lowe than an Anthony Michael Hall) and he lacks Holly's distinctive vocal hiccups, but Dunn has an overwhelming charisma and an undeniable ability to play and sing with authenticity.

The British-born musical by Alan Janes and Rob Bettinson doesn't give anyone much to work with aside from a stellar catalog created over only a few years. Holly was 26 when he died, from all accounts a decent guy whose star was starting to rise. But there's a reason people don't write memoirs at 26 (seriously, Lindsay, don't do it): There's not usually that much to say yet. Janes and Bettinson don't turn out the drama; rather, they rely on the tragic death, alluding to it so often it should be called fiveshadowing.

Staging the dramatic scenes in front of a multi-use on-set stage doesn't help the already-stiff script, littered with clunkers such as "Music never hurt anybody, man." But director Rod A. Lansberry and musical director David Nehls turn the show into a phenomenal concert with an energy that transcends tribute.

The Crickets not only provide stirring instrumental support, but they're fine characters. The show employs a surprisingly large cast; the majority of them have little to do other than form a crowd for different scenes or serve as a rotating gallery of DJs. Only in the final concert do they get put to good use, as nearly the entire cast picks up instruments and joins in a set list so powerful it drives the Arvada Center audience into a frenzy.

Buddy . . . the Buddy Holly Story

* Grade: B+

* When and where: 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays, 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, 1 p.m. Wednesdays, through Aug. 3, Arvada Center, 6901 Wadsworth Blvd.

* Cost: $38 to $48

* Information: 720-898-7200